Horsford Highlights Commitment to Affordable and High-Quality Child Care at the Children’s Advocacy Alliance Policy Summit

WASHINGTON – Congressman Steven Horsford (NV-04) virtually addressed the Children’s Advocacy Alliance (CAA) third annual Winter Policy Summit, where he emphasized the urgent need for comprehensive policy solutions facing Nevada’s children and families. The CAA summit brought together policymakers, service providers, and community leaders to discuss strategies for improving child and family welfare. Here are some excerpts of his remarks during the event: 

“This conversation to shape the Children's Agenda specifically tailored to Nevada’s needs is crucial to recognize that this is not a path we can tread alone. It's a bipartisan endeavor that transcends political divides. 

“Affordable childcare of high quality isn't merely a convenience—it's a cornerstone of economic prosperity. Yet, the financial burden it places on families nationwide is staggering. 

“The expense of center-based care for two children surpasses the average mortgage in 41 states. 

“That’s why I am proud I get to speak to you today, following the announcement by the White House about a new rule to make much-needed updates to the Child Care and Development Fund. 

“This new rule will lower the cost of child care for more than 100,000 working families, saving families more than $200 per month on average. 

“Yet despite our progress, significant challenges remain. 

“This is why events like today’s Summit are essential.

“I am confident that we can overcome any obstacle and create a brighter future for Nevada’s children.” 

During his remarks, Congressman Horsford drew attention to the recent White House announcement of a new rule to update the Child Care and Development Fund, the nation’s largest funding stream to help families afford child care and improve quality in child care setting. The new rule will help pay child care providers faster and more fairly, raising wages for child care workers, cap co-payments at no more than 7% of income for participating families, encourage states to eliminate co-payments entirely for families of children with disabilities, and streamline the eligibility and enrollment processes. 

Throughout his time in Congress, Horsford has supported efforts to lower child care costs for Nevada families. He secured a $1 million grant for the Tonopah Child Development Center and voted for the bipartisan Tax Relief for American Families and Workers Act and the American Rescue Plan Act, which provided both immediate relief for families with $39 billion in dedicated child care relief funding, as well laid the groundwork for long-term recovery and resilience in our communities.