Senator Skinner Issues Statement on Alameda County Child Care and Early Education Initiative

The Office of State Senator Nancy Skinner (D-Berkeley) issued the following statement today regarding the Alameda County Board of Supervisor’s approval of the Alameda County Child Care and Early Education Ordinance and draft program plan:

It’s a great day for children and families thanks to the Alameda County Board of Supervisors’ vote to take the first step in putting the Child Care and Early Education Initiative on the June Ballot. This bold, forward-thinking proposal will strengthen our families and our local economy. Children who start school truly prepared do better academically and enjoy greater opportunity for the rest of their lives. Starting early to give kids in Alameda County a better shot at success is the best investment we can make.

Expanding high-quality, affordable early care and education in every community in Alameda County is exactly what I had in mind when I introduced SB 703, the legislation that authorized Alameda County to put this initiative on the ballot. The initiative authorizes a half-cent sales tax that will raise $140 million every year to make sure that young children get the early care and education they need and are ready for kindergarten. This money will support over 21,000 kids in Alameda County and make sure the people who care for and educate them get fair pay. This is a great initiative for our families, our communities and our future, and I’ll be working hard for its success.

Senator Nancy Skinner (@NancySkinnerCA) represents the 9th Senate District. She serves as Chair of the Senate Public Safety Committee and the Budget Subcommittee on Corrections, Public Safety and the Judiciary.

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