Quality affordable childcare is front of mind for young parents, but it should be something we are all considering.  It’s not just a family issue it’s an economic issue impacting all Mainers.  That is why I was pleased this week to hear gubernatorial candidate Troy Jackson outline his proposal for universal child care.

In Maine, families are struggling to find childcare that is affordable and reliable.  Infant care can cost $12,000-$15,000.  This is higher than a typical mortgage payment.  The federal government provides guidelines that suggest that childcare should cost no more than 7% of a family’s income, but in Maine families often pay 20%-25% of their income–and sometimes more.

Availability of childcare is also an ongoing issue.  Maine has limited slots available and some communities are “child care deserts”.  Families who can’t find child care, can be forced to reduce work hours, turn down opportunities to work, or leave the workforce altogether. The US Chamber of Commerce Foundation and other researchers estimate that child care challenges cost the economy more than $120 billion each year in lost earnings and productivity. 

When Mainers who are able to work are out of the workforce we sacrifice their contributions to the economy and tax base.

Beyond the support quality affordable child care provides to our economy the benefits to the children in our state is even more important.  It improves language development, social skills, and school readiness and produces long-term benefits for education and economic outcomes.

Annie Gray lives in South Thomaston

Troy’s proposal addresses the need guaranteeing that no family will pay more than the 7% outlined by the federal government while lower income Mainers will pay less and also outlines ways to expand providers and opening. And before critics ask the question–he has a well outlined plan to pay for it.  

Universal child care is not simply a social program—it is a smart investment in Maine’s families and its economy. Senator Jackson’s proposal is an important step toward making that possible.  Just one more way that Troy has shared a plan for working Mainers!