County Executive Marc Elrich and members of the county council met with representatives from the local Health and Human Services and Education and Culture Committees to review bills relating to child care, and whether a restructuring of services is needed. The Wednesday discussion centered around Elrich’s recommendation to eliminate the Child Care and Early Education Officer position and the Early Childhood Coordinating Council due what he says are shifting roles, needs, and responsibilities.
The three legislative items up for debate were:
- Bill 11-25 (childcare coordination amendments);
- The Early Care and Education Coordinating Entity Designation and;
- Bill 23-25 (early care and education coordination entity).
Although no decisions were made, the council had the opportunity to ask questions and voice their concerns about the proposed cuts and what that would member for families and caregivers within the county.
Councilmember and Committee Chair Will Jawando shared his concerns over how the move could impact the local childcare industry, as well, in light of federal spending cuts.
“The big ugly bill that passed and the cuts that will be coming to Medicaid next year” would impact childcare workers, said Jawando.
A representatives from the county’s Department of Health and Human Services also read a statement on behalf of the senior administrator for the Department of Child Services expressing support for the changes:
“DHHS views these refinements as both necessary and essential to strengthening the role of the early care and education coordinating entity.” The senior official went on to acknowledge the need for support and guidance from the council. “The legislation aims to address gaps in our early childhood system through improved collaboration and strategic planning.”
There were mixed responses among the councilmembers on how to best move forward. No final decisions were made during the discussion.
The full session is available for the public to view online.
