Contact:
Mara Powell
502-895-8167 *122
mpowell@kyyouth.org

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

We applaud Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell for championing the bipartisan budget deal that makes critical investments in children’s health and well-being. This deal is a win for children and families in Kentucky and across the nation as it makes vital investments in child care assistance so parents with limited income can work, along with extending Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) funding for another four years, Maternal, Infant and Early Care Home Visiting (MIECHV) program for five years, and Community Health Center funding for two years.

The deal further commits to fundamental reform in child welfare by including the Family First Prevention Services Act, which is good for kids, good for families, and good for Kentucky. Family First significantly impacts how our systems care for vulnerable children and focuses on prevention and family support services that strengthen and keep families together. This investment, coupled with the funds included to fight opioid addiction, is especially important given the current crises permeating Kentucky communities.

We commend the Majority Leader for being a catalyst in ensuring this budget does right by families in his home state and across the nation.