The 2022 Legislative session began on January 31. While this is the “short” session focused on bonding and policy, there is already much activity related to early childhood issues.

The current state budget is set through June 2023. A $7 billion surplus has allowed lawmakers to discuss potential additions. Later this month, the next budget forecast will update this amount and guide final budget decisions. The Governor has released a proposal for significant spending across many different early childhood programs, including prekindergarten, the Child Care Assistance Program, Stabilization Grants, Early Learning Scholarships, paid parental leave and sick leave, early childhood mental health, and home visiting.

In addition to conversations about increased funding for early childhood education programs, efforts to extend many child care-related waivers to policies for parents and programs that were in place during the Governor’s Executive Authority are expected.

Be sure to follow our legislative updates and bill tracker to keep up with this fast-moving legislative session! We are also posting policy briefs this year that can help inform your advocacy around crucial early childhood education topics.