New Jersey Assembly Bill A2071

New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/9/24
• Refer: 1/9/24

Caption

Establishes competitive grant program for new child care facility construction, using $30 million in federal "Coronavirus State Fiscal Recovery Fund" monies appropriated to EDA pursuant to P.L.2022, c.49.

Impact

By structuring the grant program through the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA), the bill aims to instigate a substantial increase in the availability of child care options. Eligible organizations must be nonprofit entities with experience in child care services, ensuring that the participants are well-equipped to meet the community's needs. This approach is expected to leverage local expertise and foster economic development in neighborhoods that lack sufficient child care resources. Moreover, the bill mandates adherence to state quality rating systems, fostering both the construction of these facilities and their operational effectiveness in delivering care.

Summary

Assembly Bill A2071 establishes a competitive grant program aimed at facilitating the construction of new child care facilities within New Jersey. The initiative is backed by $30 million in federal funds from the Coronavirus State Fiscal Recovery Fund, which aims to address the urgent need for increased child care capacity, particularly targeting areas identified as 'child care deserts'—regions with a significant mismatch between the number of children needing care and the available licensed slots. The bill underscores the importance of expanding access to high-quality child care services, particularly for children aged five years and younger, thereby enhancing community welfare and supporting working families.

Contention

While the bill has received bipartisan support for addressing a critical need in child care access, there may be contention regarding the distribution criteria and the concentration on nonprofit organizations. Concerns may arise about whether this model can effectively meet the diverse needs of communities, particularly in regions historically underserved by private sector providers. Additionally, the prohibition of using grant funds for the purchase of land or buildings can restrict some potential applicants from fully leveraging the grant resources, raising questions about feasibility for long-term sustainability and expansion. How the program is managed and implemented will be crucial in determining its success and acceptance among stakeholders.