House Bill 6 aims to expand child care assistance in Kentucky

BOWLING GREEN, KY.- House Bill 6 focuses on increasing child care assistance, supporting child care workers, expanding child care for children with disabilities and addressing several other issues affecting child care in Kentucky. If you have a child or know someone who does, this bill could be beneficial.

Sarah Vanover, policy and advocacy director at Kentucky Youth Advocates, says, “It brings the community and businesses to the table. It brings government to the table. And it has benefits for families. Some of the biggest benefits to families are through the Child Care Assistance Program, which is the subsidy program for lower-income families who are working or full-time students and need help paying for child care.”

Jennifer Bryant, director of development at the Family Enrichment Center, says, “Without affordable child care, parents can’t work. It’s key. And so many families in Kentucky live in poverty or just above the poverty line. So affordable child care is key in keeping children safe in our community.”

Whether in a single-parent home or a two-parent household, cost is one obstacle many families face. Another hurdle is the unique care some children may need.

Advocates say the changes included in House Bill 6 are being taken seriously by caregivers and educators across the commonwealth.

According to advocates, the bill impacts every representative, regardless of political party. As the bill progresses, News 40 will keep you up to date.