Published January 24, 2024 at 7:15 AM EST CTPublic.org
Photo: Mark Mirko/Connecticut Public
Nichelle Waddell of owner Watch Me Grow Daycare in Stamford and is a supporter of a bill signed by Governor Lamont in June, 2023, aimed at helping address a shortage of childcare providers.
Governor Ned Lamont says child care is a top priority for Connecticut’s 2024 legislative session. He tasked a panel of experts with proposing a plan to overhaul what many consider to be a broken system. In a few weeks, Lamont will present his proposal for the Blue Ribbon Panel’s first year of a five-year plan to the Connecticut General Assembly.
Families and child care providers are hoping to see major changes, like higher wages for child care providers and an increase in parent subsidies. But some wonder if the proposed plan will go far enough.
This hour, we’ll explore the reforms needed to fix an industry in crisis and what the future holds if changes aren’t made.
Plus, Bridgeport’s Democratic primary election results were overturned last Fall due to allegations of fraud. After yesterday’s court-ordered re-vote, do we finally have a winner?
GUESTS:
Bria Lloyd: Investigative Reporter, Connecticut Public
Erica Phillips: Economic Development Reporter, Connecticut MirrorÂ
Melissa Boteach: Vice President for Income Security and Child Care/Early Learning, National Women’s Law Center
Karen List: Founder of the PK-3 Leadership Program, University of Connecticut's Neag School of Education
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