Economic Crisis

Floor Speech

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Ms. HOULAHAN. Mr. Speaker, a lot of people in this body are talking about jobs these days, and rightfully so. Our economy is in crisis. But what I want to do is urge everyone that when we talk about rebuilding this economy, we are talking about all of the issues that make for a successful economy, and that includes childcare and attention to our children.

Like many industries during this pandemic, childcare is struggling. Many facilities can't pay their bills due to reduced demand in services and increased costs to keep safe facilities for both children and staff. Many of us on both sides of the aisle have rightfully celebrated the heroes of this pandemic: healthcare workers, frontline workers, and essential workers. And these are the very people who are using childcare right now and they are the ones who cannot work from home and, therefore, need enriching and safe places for their children to go while they literally save lives and provide for the American people.

So I ask every Member who has spoken so passionately about our heroes and about returning to normal life to move beyond those words and to take meaningful votes on legislation that will ensure access to equitable, high-quality childcare for infants, toddlers, preschoolers, and afterschool care children alike all across this country.

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