Today, Assemblywoman Mary Beth Walsh (R,C,I,Ref-Ballston) participated in a joint-hearing of the Committee on Children and Families to discuss access to quality child care. Assemblywoman Walsh, along with colleagues from the Senate and Assembly, examined the barriers to accessing quality child day care and how a lack of access relates to a variety of issues, including child development, family stability and the economy.

“As any working parent knows, finding affordable, accessible and safe care for a child can be extremely difficult and can put tremendous strain on a family,” said Walsh, Ranking Minority Member on the Assembly Children and Families Committee. “For years, the cost of finding viable options for child care has been rising and simply exceeds what many families can afford. In this difficult economy, combined with one or both parents working or in school, the cost of adequate child care can make a family’s financial situation incredibly stressful.

“As legislators, it is critical that we stay alert of this growing issue and develop policy solutions that ease the strain that comes from working and raising a family. No mother or father should be forced to decide between taking care of their child and earning a decent wage. I will remain committed to finding a solution to this issue, and will continue to work with my colleagues until we have a plan that works for New York families everywhere.”

Earlier this year, Assemblywoman Walsh voted to double the child care tax credit for middle-class families earning between $60,000 and $150,000 a year.