Panel meets to discuss 5-year plan for childcare in Connecticut

HARTFORD, CT (WFSB) - Connecticut’s governor on Wednesday attended an inaugural meeting of the Connecticut Blue Ribbon Panel on childcare.

The panel was recently created with the goal of ensuring a robust system for families, providers, and the economy over the next five years, according to Gov. Ned Lamont.

Advocates have argued that the costs of childcare have become astronomical for many families, especially single parents.

“I see it on the side of the parent that’s struggling to pay for childcare and not being able to afford [it],” said Maria Del Pilar Vargas, a parent. “And then from the providers’ prospective, they’re not reimbursed or paid for the quality they’re providing.”

According to Ready Nation, childcare costs for individual parents were more than $5,000 per year.

Ready Nation’s report also said that the government loses about $21 billion in lost income and sales tax revenues because of a lack of child care, causing it to earn and consume less from local economies.

The Connecticut Blue Ribbon Panel was designated to design a 5-year strategic plan, and consists of child care providers, early childhood education organizations, and parents.

“It’s important to give kids the very best head start in life, and it helps mom and dad get back to work,” Lamont said.

A meeting with the panel happened at 9 a.m. at the Lyceum in Hartford.

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