The following statement can be attributed to Moira Kenney, Executive Director of First 5 Association, in response to Governor Brown’s 2018-19 May Revision, released today:
“Governor Brown’s decision to devote additional revenue in his budget toward tackling housing insecurity, poverty, and mental illness is good for young kids and families. One in four young children in California experience housing instability, and one in five kids live in poverty. Housing insecurity, poverty, and household mental illness all contribute to childhood trauma, which has long-ranging effects into adulthood. Putting more money toward prevention of these stressors will benefit individuals, their families, and society at large.
In addition, we’re pleased that Governor Brown continues to support new programs that benefit families such as the CalWORKs Home Visiting Initiative and the Inclusive Early Education Expansion Program.
However, the governor’s May Revision falls short of the $1 billion for babies the state needs to connect families to child care. With only 14% of eligible infants and toddlers able to access subsidized care, we know the need among 0- to 3-year-olds is particularly acute. We look forward to working with the legislature on policies that meet this persistent need. Investing in young kids is the best way to invest in our social and economic future as a state.”
