While much was being discussed Friday about the Presidential debate, I was in Washington, D.C., focused on a different topic – the National Childcare Innovation Summit. Presented in partnership with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation and U.S. Department of Commerce, organizers expect this Summit will “serve as a call to action, underscoring the pivotal role of accessible, affordable child care in bolstering economic competitiveness and supporting working parents.”
I’m pleased to report Indiana’s statewide efforts on childcare were prominently featured as part of this national conversation and we’re eager to continue momentum from initiatives passed this year in the Indiana General Assembly.
It was also exciting to see Gov. Eric Holcomb and Adam Alson, owner of Alson Farms and cofounder of Appleseed Childhood Education, Inc., were both on panels and each complimented the Indiana Chamber for our partnership and work on this issue. That’s appreciated and timely, as measures resulting from Senate Enrolled Act 2 and House Enrolled Act 1102 are among laws taking effect on Monday. These laws include Chamber-backed policy provisions that include accelerating state rulemaking to streamline existing childcare regulations, expanding support for childcare workers and hard-to-serve areas, and ensuring greater data transparency and reporting regarding the state investments in early learning.
Information gleaned from this summit will undoubtedly help us collectively move forward to increase access to affordable and safe childcare options for Hoosiers.
