State Sen. Melinda Bush, working parents call for full child care assistance funding

GURNEE - State Sen. Melinda Bush, D-Grayslake, joined parents, child care providers, and representatives of the Service Employees International Union (SEIU) to speak out in favor of restoring full funding and access to the Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP).

The program helps working families afford day care for their children. Under tighter restrictions imposed by Governor Bruce Rauner starting July 1, an estimated 90% of parents who apply for CCAP would be denied.

“The Child Care Assistance Program is a vital service for working families,” Bush said. “Parents should never need to wonder if it’s better to just stay home. I voted to reinstate CCAP funding, and I urge Governor Rauner to listen to parents and child care providers and do the right thing by signing that legislation.”

Advocates at the press event highlighted a new statewide study from Innovation Illinois that found that the state’s vital services generate substantial economic benefits and create thousands of jobs. Child care providers and home care workers spoke about why such programs are essential to working parents, single parents, seniors and adults with disabilities.

“Without this critical service, families will be forced to stop working, stay home and use other state services,” said State Rep. Rita Mayfield, D-Waukegan, who was also in attendance. “We should be sure we’re providing every service possible to ensure self-sufficiency and not state dependency. If they’re capable of working, we want them working.”