The federal affordability standard of 7% income for daycare is no longer a reality as rising costs that can exceed $20,000 per child are now equal to or more than some college tuition.

The rapid increase in childcare costs are forcing families into difficult decisions every day. Many parents are faced with the impossible choice of working just to cover daycare fees or stepping back from their careers to care for their children, losing income and career growth opportunities. This not only hampers individual families but also impacts the broader economy, reducing the workforce and decreasing consumer spending.

In the U.S., the average cost of full-time daycare ranges $15,000- $25,000 per year, per child. This exorbitant expense is untenable for many American families, who are increasingly living paycheck to paycheck. Moreover, childcare providers are themselves often underpaid, and struggle to stay afloat with rising operational costs.

Something must change! 

To address this crushing financial strain, it is crucial that both federal and state governments take immediate action to make childcare more affordable. Increasing childcare subsidies, offering tax credits to parents, and implementing measures to cap childcare costs relative to income are potential strategies to alleviate the burden and allow parents to continue pursuing their careers. Companies can also be incentivized to offer on-site childcare or partner with local providers, further assisting families in managing these costs.

Affordable childcare is not a luxury; it is a necessity for thriving families and a robust economy. By reforming childcare cost structures and providing support to both families and providers, we can ensure that every child has the opportunity for quality early education and that parents can continue to contribute to our society without financial ruin.

We urge policymakers to recognize childcare as a fundamental issue affecting economic stability and quality of life for millions of Americans. Taking meaningful steps toward affordable childcare would reaffirm our commitment to supporting working families and upholding the principles of the American dream.

Please sign this petition to demand a national overhaul of our childcare system, to lower its costs, and to secure a future where families can thrive.