Senate unveils Massachusetts bill that could safeguard child care affordability

Photo courtesy of MGN

By Madison Lucchesi

Democrats in the Massachusetts Senate introduced legislation to make childcare affordable and accessible on Thursday. 

Senate President Karen Spilka announced the bill that will create permanent grants for direct payment to early childhood education and childcare programs. Currently, the Commonwealth Cares for Children grants aid 90% of early childhood and childcare programs in Massachusetts. These grants primarily supported programs during the pandemic by decreasing tuition costs, increasing wages, and creating more spots in these programs. 

The Senate Chamber previously promised to increase access to education. Senate President Spilka said the bill will provide “high-quality educational opportunities to our children from birth through adulthood, as well as our obligation to make Massachusetts affordable and equitable for our residents and competitive for employers.”

This bill caps out of pocket fees at 7% of a family’s income. The bill expands eligibility to families making up to 85% of the state’s median income, which is $124,000 for a family of four. When future grants become available, eligibility will expand to families making up to 125% of the state’s median income, which is $182,000 for a family of four. 

The Senate plans to discuss the bill on Thursday, March 14.