Counties: Child Care Provider Bonuses Help Maryland's Working Families

On March 15, 2023, Associate Policy Director Brianna January submitted testimony to the Senate Budget and Taxation Committee in support of SB 881 – Child Care Providers and Employees – Bonuses – Alterations.

This bill increases financial support in the form of certain bonuses for currently licensed child care providers in Maryland, and in doing so, also seeks to incentivize the establishment of new providers. At a time when the child care community is still reeling from the effects of the Coronavirus pandemic, counties wholeheartedly welcome State investment in this vital industry. SB 881’s additional $6 million annual appropriation for the State Department of Education further enables local governments to take direct action to carry out the bill’s intent while not incurring any undue financial burden.

From the MACo Testimony:

The COVID-19 pandemic illuminated the shortage of licensed child care providers to support the safe care of Maryland’s kids and support the state’s working families. The state does not currently have enough licensed providers to meet the needs of families balancing work, child care, and the ongoing pandemic. Many providers had to cease operation during the pandemic out of public health risk and financial instability associated with COVID-19. Those providers that remain in operation are struggling to stay afloat, and many are unable to secure adequate staff to provide reliable child care.