Child Care in the News: Tribal Advocacy, Funding Freezes, and Provider Warnings Come to Life

As national debates over budgets and restructuring rage on, child care continues to face critical challenges—from proposed funding freezes to the real-life impacts of rising costs. This week’s headlines spotlight Tribal leaders demanding meaningful consultation, child care centers shutting down across Wisconsin, and a proposed $6 billion federal freeze that could undercut school-based care across the country.

Speaker Crystalyne Curley calls for continued federal support and forward funding to protect critical services from disruption. (Photo/Navajo Nation)

Navajo Nation Demands Tribal Consultation in Federal Restructuring Plans

Native News Online reports that the 25th Navajo Nation Council has passed legislation urging the U.S. government to protect Tribal sovereignty and ensure Tribal consultation in any federal restructuring—especially in areas that affect services like early childhood programs.🔗 Read article

Trump Proposes $6 Billion Freeze to School-Based Services

The 19th highlights how a proposal by former President Trump would freeze $6 billion in federal funding for schools. Advocates warn this could disproportionately harm low-income families, women, and children who rely on school-based care and nutrition programs.🔗 Read article

“It’s What Providers Warned Us About”: Child Care Centers Close in Wisconsin

WSAW reports on the growing crisis in Northcentral Wisconsin as child care centers close their doors due to unsustainable rates and insufficient funding. The closures are a stark confirmation of providers’ long-standing warnings about the financial instability of the system.🔗 Read article