By: Gongwer Access article
Changes to the state's publicly funded child care program in the Senate's version of the budget drew criticism Thursday from advocacy groups that said they would move the state backward...Child care groups also raised their concerns with the Senate's proposed elimination of the Step Up to Quality mandate in testimony before the Senate Finance Committee.
"It will create a two-tiered child care system of haves and have-nots, where low-income children are denied a fair shot at building a strong foundation for school and career success," said Lynanne Gutierrez, assistant director at Groundwork Ohio. "Disparities in outcomes will grow even wider, resulting in fewer young adults prepared to enter the workforce."