STATEWIDE — The coronavirus pandemic has caused more stress for families who are already struggling to find affordable child care, but new legislation could help change that.
On Wednesday, April 28, Governor Ralph Northam signed legislation that would expand access to affordable child care in Virginia.
The signing ceremony was held at Northern Virginia Academy of Early Learning’s Burke campus, located at 6215 Roberts Pkwy.
“There is power in every child and great beginnings lead to tremendous futures,” Gov. Northam said during the signing event. “That’s why we’re expanding access to quality early childhood care and education, which has been a top priority for our administration.”
The bill will help Virginians seeking financial assistance for child care while they return to work or are in search for employment
House Bill 2206 builds upon existing programs for affordable child care access in Virginia through federal emergency funds. It expands access to Virginia’s Child Care Subsidy Program for families earning up to 85 percent of the state median income with a child under five years of age, or not yet in kindergarten.
A single parent earning up to $60,000 a year will now be able to access affordable child care options.
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