Governor Josh Stein of North Carolina has announced the release of an interim report by the North Carolina Task Force on Child Care and Early Education. The task force, co-chaired by Lieutenant Governor Rachel Hunt and Senator Jim Burgin, presented six recommendations aimed at improving access to high-quality child care in the state.
Governor Stein emphasized the importance of investing in child care, stating, “Investing in child care benefits everyone. When children grow up in a supportive and nurturing environment, it sets them on the trajectory to thrive as adults.” He called for collective efforts to enhance accessibility and affordability of child care.
Lieutenant Governor Hunt highlighted the challenges faced by families and child care centers, noting that “North Carolina families are struggling to find quality child care while centers are closing their doors.” She expressed confidence that the task force’s work provides a path forward.
Commerce Secretary Lee Lilley pointed out that child care is crucial for maintaining competitiveness and prosperity. He mentioned public-private solutions as essential components for addressing these challenges.
Senator Jim Burgin described child care as a critical issue for young families, expressing gratitude towards Lt. Gov. Hunt and Governor Stein for their commitment to this cause.
The report addresses significant issues within North Carolina’s child care system, including recruitment and retention of early childhood education professionals. The high cost of infant care is noted as more expensive than in-state college tuition, leading many parents to leave the workforce due to lack of affordable options.
The task force’s recommendations include setting a statewide floor for subsidy reimbursement rates, offering non-salary benefits for professionals, forming partnerships with educational institutions to increase access, providing subsidized or free child care for educators, linking existing workforce programs, and exploring a child care endowment.
These initiatives aim to tackle various aspects affecting the state’s child care landscape. The task force will continue its work over the coming months with further reports expected by December 2025.
The members of the task force comprise representatives from various sectors including government officials, educators, health sector leaders, and business executives. They collectively seek solutions to enhance North Carolina’s early education system.
