Contact:
Mara Powell
mpowell@kyyouth.org

Statement from Dr. Terry Brooks, executive director of Kentucky Youth Advocates

LOUISVILLE, KY – Kentucky’s economy counts on a strong child care workforce and availability of high quality child care for every child so parents can go to work knowing their child is safe, learning, and cared for. Yet, child care deserts and increasing waitlists are causing child care programs to operate at the highest adult-to-child ratios that the state will allow, which makes it more challenging for child care providers to protect the health and safety of the children in the classroom. 

Through House Bill 6, Representative Samara Heavrin is masterfully leading the charge to strengthen child care options for families across the Commonwealth. This comprehensive legislation will impact accessibility, affordability, and availability of quality child care centers, especially among children with disabilities, families who are low income, and parents who currently work in centers. 

We thank Representative Heavrin for her diligence on improving Kentucky’s child care infrastructure holistically and for Chairman Danny Carroll and the Senate Families and Children Committee for their vote in support today. Now, we call on the full Senate to ensure HB 6 reaches the Governor’s desk by the final gavel on April 15th. 

Stay up-to-date on Blueprint for Kentucky’s Children priorities and other bills that are good for kids on our Kentucky General Assembly Bill Tracker.

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About Kentucky Youth Advocates
Kentucky Youth Advocates believes all children deserve to be safe, healthy, and secure. As THE independent voice for Kentucky’s children, we work to ensure policymakers create investments and policies that are good for children. Learn more at www.kyyouth.org.