Bill > HR41

This resolution directs the Joint State Government Commission to conduct a comprehensive study on emergency child care in Pennsylvania, with the goal of understanding and improving support for families facing sudden childcare challenges. The study will involve examining the current availability of emergency child care facilities, analyzing licensing types, reviewing funding sources from federal and state programs, and investigating challenges faced by these facilities. The resolution requires the commission to establish an advisory committee with diverse representation, including government officials, childcare providers, parents, and nonprofit representatives. The study will specifically explore issues such as the insufficient number of crisis nurseries (currently just 12 in the state), staffing challenges (with average wages around $12.43 per hour), and the fact that nearly 60% of Pennsylvania residents live in "child-care deserts" where demand significantly outpaces available childcare openings. The commission is expected to provide policy and legislative recommendations that could help Pennsylvania access additional federal funding and support emergency childcare networks, with a requirement to present a comprehensive report to the House of Representatives within 18 months of the resolution's adoption.

Education

https://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billinfo/bill_history.cfm?syear=2025&sind=0&body=H&type=R&bn=41