Caring for our children is a responsibility that we all play a role in. Our nation doesn’t work without quality, affordable child care. More importantly, it helps our children thrive.

Federal investments New York received during the pandemic allowed us to expand child care assistance. About half of New York’s children ages 12 and under are now eligible for assistance. Making child care affordable for families is only half the equation. The other half is investing in the workforce and infrastructure to ensure these essential businesses can operate now and into the future.

Child care in the United State is what Secretary of the Treasury Janet Yellen called a “textbook example of a broken market.” Parents cannot afford to pay more for care, but providers cannot afford to charge less.

The American Rescue Plan Act, which saved the child care sector from collapse, is expiring on Sept. 30. If these funds are not replaced, states across the country, including New York, will be forced to scale back child care assistance and child care programs will be forced to raise their rates or close their doors permanently.

We are on the edge of falling off a funding cliff. We are also on the brink of a once-in-a-generation opportunity to transform how our nation cares for children. Congress must make an immediate investment of $16 billion per year to stave off shrinking child care spots, staffing shortages and rising prices that will disrupt both our families and our economy.

Larry Marx. CEO, The Children’s Agenda