Ernst Pushes to Increase Access to Child Care for Iowa Families

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) is working to strengthen child care access, affordability, and quality in rural communities across Iowa and America. Ernst is introducing the Expanding Childcare in Rural America Act alongside Sen. Roger Marshall (R-Kan.) to direct U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development programs to prioritize projects that expand child care options for American families, workers, and employers — helping strengthen rural communities and grow Iowa’s workforce. “As a mother and grandmother, I know firsthand that access to dependable, high-quality child care is essential for working families and the strength of our rural communities across Iowa,” said Senator Ernst . “No parent should have to worry about whether they can find affordable, reliable care close to home, especially in our rural Iowa communities where options can be limited. That’s why I’m proud to support this legislation to expand the availability of child care centers, improve the quality of care for our children, and give Iowa families peace of mind.” “In every corner of Kansas, I’ve heard from families and business owners alike that child care is critical to their communities,” said Senator Marshall. “With summer break underway and many parents adjusting schedules and searching for care options, the need for accessible child care is top of mind for families across rural America. This bill is laser-focused on expanding rural child care infrastructure and helping put our kids on the path to a bright future. I’m proud to introduce the first-ever child care provision in a Farm Bill framework, and I look forward to getting it across the finish line.” Read the bill here . ###