OPINION — Recently, my 2-year-old daughter and I attended Sen. Ruben Gallego’s Childcare Town Hall in Phoenix. As a mom of three, I joined other Arizona parents and childcare providers to speak about a challenge that affects families across our state: the high cost of childcare.
Like many Arizona families, we are trying to make ends meet on a limited budget. I want to work, help support my family and create opportunities for my children. But affordable childcare is increasingly difficult to find. And I know I’m not alone. Nearly half of working parents say childcare challenges affect their ability to work.
During the town hall, parents and providers shared stories that sounded a lot like my own. Childcare costs continue to rise, while many families are struggling with housing, groceries and other everyday expenses. At the same time, Arizona’s childcare assistance waitlist has now reached over 15,000 children, leaving thousands of working families without the support they need.
Childcare is not a luxury. It’s a necessity. It allows parents to work, pursue an education and provide for their families while ensuring that children have safe, nurturing environments during critical years of development.
I appreciate Sen. Gallego taking the time to listen to Arizona families and providers. Those conversations matter. But families need more than conversations.
I urge Sen. Gallego to co-sponsor the bipartisan Childcare Modernization Act and support policies that make childcare more affordable and accessible for working families. Nearly two-thirds of voters, 63%, support the Childcare Modernization Act, demonstrating broad support for action to strengthen our childcare system.
Arizona parents are doing everything they can to provide for their children. We need policies that reflect the realities families face every day and help ensure the next generation has every opportunity to succeed.
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