The Children’s Agenda is grateful for the groundbreaking investments in New York’s child care system in the SFY27 enacted budget. Proposed by the Governor and with full support from the legislature, the $3 billion dedicated to the program is a significant milestone on the path to achieving universal child care. We are disappointed that there were no new investments in the child care workforce and are concerned that the fragile condition of the workforce will be a barrier to the success of this initiative.

Similarly, we applaud the $1.6 billion investment in New York’s Universal Pre-K program, enabling the program to serve nearly all 4-year-olds in the state. The Children’s Agenda is disappointed that State leaders failed to ensure equity for three-year-old children in need of Pre-K programs outside of New York City. To achieve a truly universal Pre-K system, New York State must increase per-pupil rates for all pre-kindergarteners.

The Early Intervention program, so effective in helping infants and toddlers get developmentally on track, was only flat-funded once again. We are deeply concerned that the State is leaving behind thousands of families with infants and toddlers whose rights to services and therapies are neglected in this budget.

The Children's Agenda team has provided a more detailed assessment of these key priority areas, along with the child care pilot program for Monroe County, Foundation Aid formula, and additional areas of interest. Read the full statement on our website at https://thechildrensagenda.org/publications/tcas-statement-on-the-nys-2026-27-enacted-budget/

Data makes the argument. Parent power makes it undeniable. Together, they change policy.

Progress like this year's historic investments in child care and pre-kindergarten comes from years of sustained, community-rooted advocacy. And it's only possible when families like Diane's are resourced to lead. 

"I want legislators to look at us as human beings, not as a number. It's not just about my babies. It's about everybody's babies."

That kind of advocacy moves things. 

Support from people like you makes this movement powerful.

Your support funds child care during advocacy meetings, travel to Albany, and training that prepares parents to lead – the practical support that makes participation possible.

The next chapter needs you. Will you keep building with us?