Senators Introduce New Legislation to Improve Access to Affordable, Quality Child Care
- Apr 2
- 2 min read
On April 3, 2025, Senate Finance Committee Chair Ron Wyden (D-Ore.) and Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) introduced the Building Child Care for a Better Future Act, a new legislative proposal aimed at making high-quality child care more affordable and accessible for families across the country. The bill is designed to tackle one of the most pressing challenges facing American families—child care affordability—by reducing costs and expanding access to care, particularly for those with the greatest need.
This legislation comes at a critical time, as child care providers and families continue to grapple with the lasting impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and the loss of emergency funding. The bill includes provisions that would boost child care supply, support the child care workforce, and provide meaningful relief for parents struggling to afford care.
For Tribal communities, where the barriers to accessing culturally relevant and high-quality care are often even more pronounced, this bill has important implications.
NICCA Supports the Reducing the Costs of Child Care Act
Jennifer Rackliff, Executive Director of the National Indian Child Care Association (NICCA), shared the following in support of the bill:
NICCA is grateful to see the introduction of the Reducing the Costs of Child Care Act and the focus on improving access to quality, affordable care for all families. Tribal communities continue to navigate limited funding and complex challenges to provide child care that supports the well-being and identity of Native children. We urge Congress to advance this bill and ensure that Tribal child care programs are fully included and supported in these efforts.
NICCA remains committed to advocating for increased investments in Tribal early care and education programs. We believe that all Native children deserve access to care that honors their identity, supports their development, and strengthens their connection to culture and community.
As the bill progresses, NICCA will continue to engage with policymakers to ensure Tribal perspectives and priorities are at the forefront of child care policy.
Learn More & Take Action
Read the full announcement from the Senate Finance Committee:
Stay connected with NICCA for updates and opportunities to advocate for Tribal child care. Join our advocacy training to learn how to get your voice heard.
Together, we can build a stronger future for Native children and families.
