H.R.581 - Child Care Workforce and Facilities Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.581, the Child Care Workforce and Facilities Act of 2025, aims to assist states and tribal entities in expanding their child care workforce and facilities, particularly in child care deserts. The bill authorizes grants for workforce development and facility construction/renovation. It prioritizes increasing access to quality, affordable child care, especially during non-traditional hours.
Expected Effects
The bill, if enacted, would likely increase the availability of child care services, especially in underserved areas. It could also lead to a more qualified child care workforce through support for education and training. The grants could stimulate local economies through construction and renovation projects.
Potential Benefits
- Increased access to quality child care, particularly in child care deserts.
- Development of a more skilled and credentialed child care workforce.
- Support for individuals pursuing education and training in child care.
- Potential economic stimulus through construction and renovation projects.
- Improved affordability of child care services for families.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for inefficient use of funds if grants are not properly managed or targeted.
- Administrative overhead costs could reduce the amount of funding directly benefiting child care services.
- The 50% federal share requires states and tribal entities to provide matching funds, which may strain their budgets.
- The definition of "child care desert" relies on census data, which may not accurately reflect real-time needs.
- Possible displacement of existing child care providers if new facilities are built without considering market demand.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill's focus on child care and education aligns with the general welfare clause of the Constitution's preamble. While the Constitution does not explicitly mention child care, the Supreme Court has generally upheld federal spending programs aimed at promoting the general welfare under the Necessary and Proper Clause (Article I, Section 8). The Tenth Amendment reserves powers not delegated to the federal government to the states, but federal grants to states are generally permissible if they do not unduly coerce the states.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).