SACRAMENTO— Speaker Emeritus Anthony Rendon (D-Lakewood) announced today that he has introduced legislation that will make it easier for children with disabilities and their families to access childcare programs and services in California.
"Families who have children with disabilities face serious challenges in meeting the requirements to use California's childcare and development programs. We should be making it easier, not harder, for these families to get the services they need," said Speaker Emeritus Rendon. "By aligning California's eligibility requirements with those at the federal level, families across the state who are in need of support will now have access to these underutilized and life-changing programs."
California law requires that the state offers childcare and development programs to families who meet eligibility requirements, such as currently receiving aid or meeting specified income levels. Children with disabilities are also eligible for developmental services under federal programs. California's eligibility requirements are significantly different than federal requirements, which can make it more difficult for families with disabilities to access childcare programs. For instance, California regulations require both parents to be working in order to access childcare, which can be particularly challenging for parents of a child with disabilities.
AB 1925 would align California's program eligibility requirements with federal requirements, making it easier for California's kids to access state services.
"By expanding access to quality childcare, particularly for low-income and special needs families, we equip our youngest learners with the foundational skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in school and life," said Los Angeles County Superintendent of Schools Dr. Debra Duardo. "While AB 1925 focuses on childcare access, its impact reverberates far beyond that. It is a pathway for closing achievement gaps, boosting workforce participation, and cultivating a future generation of thriving citizens. By investing in the General Child Care and Development Program, we invest in our education system, our economy, and the well-being of our community. I applaud Speaker Emeritus Rendon for championing AB 1925, his commitment to equity and dedication to building a brighter future for our youngest learners."
Website of Assembly Speaker Emeritus Anthony Rendon: https://a62.asmdc.org
CONTACT: Katie.Talbot@asm.ca.gov