Mason Joins White House Convening on Childcare, Streamlining Family Assistance Services, Launching Child Tax Credit

GURNEE, Ill. – Last Friday, state Rep. Joyce Mason, D-Gurnee, joined lawmakers from across the country at the White House to discuss Illinois’ progress on childcare and early childhood education, including the establishment of the Department of Early Childhood, the Child Tax Credit and other family assistance services.

“Introducing the child tax credit, streamlining childcare services and bolstering funding for other programs all are contributing to Illinois’ pro-family agenda,” Mason said. “It was a privilege to join my fellow lawmakers and share the progress we’ve made as well as discuss smart new approaches other states have taken to shape a better future for their kids.”

Mason, who serves as the Chairperson of the House Child Care Accessibility and Early Childhood Education Committee, was invited to this convening at the White House for a second time. She and other state lawmakers spent the morning discussing accomplishments and challenges related to childcare and early childhood education in America. The event facilitated an exchange of ideas between state leaders and encouraged further action, including introducing and championing effective legislation in forthcoming legislative sessions.

“Building up our future starts by giving our children the stable living situations they deserve, ensuring high quality education and easing the financial burdens on working parents,” Mason said. “Steady homelives have been shown to result in kids who are more professionally successful and substantially less likely to turn to crime. Our pro-family measures aren’t just about happy kids, they are about creating a safer, thriving Illinois.”