Assemblywoman Dunn calls for greater investment in affordable child care in New Jersey
NEW JERSEY — Assemblywoman Aura K. Dunn, R-25th District, is calling for greater state investment in affordable child care, warning that rising costs are placing significant financial pressure on New Jersey families and creating challenges for working parents and businesses.
Dunn recently joined parents and child care advocates at the State House for the Start Strong NJ Affordable Child Care Rally, where participants urged lawmakers to take action to make quality child care more accessible and affordable.
In a statement to advocates, Dunn said the growing cost of child care affects families across New Jersey, regardless of their backgrounds or circumstances, and deserves greater attention from policymakers at all levels of government.
Dunn pointed to legislation she has introduced and supported, including Assembly Bill A3829, which would expand preschool opportunities for children in underserved communities.
She also highlighted her support for measures aimed at stabilizing child care providers, improving subsidy payments and providing additional tax relief to families raising children.
The assemblywoman cited New Jersey’s previous suspension of new applications for the state’s Child Care Assistance Program as an example of the consequences of insufficient funding. Although the program has since reopened, Dunn said lawmakers must work to prevent similar disruptions in the future.
Dunn argued that affordable child care should receive greater consideration during the state budget process, emphasizing the need for dependable funding and lasting solutions for families and providers.
She also warned that difficulties securing reliable child care can have broader economic consequences, including interrupted careers, businesses losing employees and reduced economic competitiveness.
According to Dunn, ensuring access to affordable child care is essential not only to supporting children and families but also to maintaining a strong workforce and economy.
Dunn said she intends to continue working with lawmakers across party lines and child care advocates to advance policies that improve affordability and accessibility.
