Buffalo Ledger

In a recent announcement, a comprehensive plan named "A Blueprint for Childcare" has been unveiled by a group of colleagues led by Norris, focusing on addressing the challenges faced by parents in finding affordable child care. The plan aims to reimagine child care in New York by making day care more affordable, supporting providers in expanding their services, and increasing access to early childhood education.

Norris emphasized the importance of affordable child care, stating, "One of the most challenging things parents face is finding affordable child care." Recognizing the shift in parental reliance on day care providers, Norris highlighted the financial burden on families, with costs exceeding $20,000 a year for two young children.

To alleviate the financial strain on families, Norris proposed a series of tax credits to provide relief. The plan includes measures such as increasing the state Earned Income Tax Credit and the Empire State child credit amount, aiming to save parents significant amounts annually.

Furthermore, the plan prioritizes the quality of child care services, with a focus on early childhood development. Norris stressed the significance of the first eight years of a child's life, stating, "Because the first eight years of a child’s life are the most critical for their brain development and learning capacity." The plan includes provisions for enhancing child care facilities and increasing access to early childhood education programs like Universal Pre-K.

In conclusion, Norris emphasized the importance of making child care more affordable for hardworking families, emphasizing that it is essential to retain families in the state. The "A Blueprint for Childcare" plan aims to address these challenges and create a more accessible and affordable child care system for families in New York.