Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Elise Stefanik today voted in favor of the Ensuring Children and Child Care Workers Safe Act, legislation that she cosponsored. This bipartisan legislation directs the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to provide states with educational material and technical assistance related to:
- COVID-19 prevention in childcare facilities.
- Professional development for childcare providers on health and safety.
- How to acquire and use personal protective equipment.
- How to modify operations to prevent COVID-19 transmission, including optimal staff-to-child ratios.
Additionally, this bill allows HHS to make grants available to states, so they can provide outreach and technical support to childcare providers.
“Childcare is an essential industry that has had to adapt to changing conditions and challenges that the COVID-19 pandemic has created,” said Congresswoman Stefanik. “Many North Country families who also perform essential work have relied on their childcare providers throughout the pandemic, and those who are returning safely to work need to ensure that their children are safe and cared for as well. I am proud to vote in favor of this important legislation to provide crucial resources and guidance to our childcare facilities in order to help them operate safely and efficiently. I will continue to support workers who have been on the frontlines of this pandemic and advocate for resources and funding that directly address their needs and the needs of the communities around them.”
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