Chung Signs Nationwide Letter Demanding Federal Childcare Funding

BLOOMINGTON, Ill. – State Rep. Sharon Chung, D-Bloomington, joins over 200 lawmakers from all 50 states to sign a comprehensive letter organized by the State Innovation Exchange (SiX), the National Women’s Law Center (NWLC), and the Child Care for Every Family Network urging the federal government to restore childcare funding.  

“Childcare is one of the highest priority issues across the country, and as a working mom, I know the struggle,” said Chung. “I stand proudly with my colleagues in demanding funding for childcare be released to parents and families nationwide.”

In January, the Trump administration announced its intention to cut childcare funding in five states, including Illinois. Additionally, the federal government’s “Defend the Spend” policy targets social services and childcare programs by forcing agencies servicing these vital resources to provide excessive and unnecessary documents before receiving any kind of funding, causing nationwide delays.

Chung has been integral to championing legislation supporting young families, children, and education access. Recently, Chung co-sponsored House Resolution 621, calling for the immediate release of the $10 billion in child care funds frozen across democratic-majority states, including over $1 billion to Illinois families and children facing poverty, chronic illness or disability.

“Without childcare funding, parents are unable to work and financially care for their families,” said Chung. “These cuts are detrimental to so many families. The Trump Administration cannot keep using our families and children in their political games— it’s immoral and unethical.”

The collaborative letter can be read here and was entered into the record during yesterday’s Senate Judiciary Hearing.