RIght Start Legislative Agenda Update
Child Care is Essential Act / State Budget for Child Care
We need statutory changes to rates, copayments, and eligibility for the state’s Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) so programs can continue to operate, and more families can have access to affordable, high-quality child care which is needed to get people back to work. Rates have been increased under Executive Orders that will expire, and providers cannot survive a rate cut. We need at least $91 million for the Child Care Assistance Program in the FY 22 state budget to stabilize our child care sector and help Rhode Island families as they return to work.
Early Educator Investment Act
This legislation has passed the Senate and now we need it to pass in the House as well. It would require the state to set goals and develop plans to raise wages for early educators in child care, Early Intervention, and family home visiting. This bill has no budget implications.
Perinatal Doula Act
This legislation has passed the Senate and now we need it to pass in the House as well. It would require Medicaid and private insurance coverage for perinatal doula services.
Paid Family Leave / Temporary Caregivers Insurance
A bill has passed the Senate that would extend paid leave to 8 weeks. We are urging the House to strongly consider improving wage replacement rates so low-wage workers can afford to take leave when they have a baby AND to extend paid leave to 12 weeks.
Medicaid Postpartum Bill
This legislation has passed the Senate and now we need it to pass the House as well. Consistent, stable access to health insurance for new moms will help improve maternal and infant health!
Revenue for Rhode Island
We continue to hear that “there isn’t enough money to adequately fund programs and meet the needs of children and families.” Passing the Revenue for Rhode Island Bill is a good way to raise needed funding. Click here to contact your legislators in support of Revenue for Rhode Island.
