Proposed WA Budget Cuts Threaten Child Care, Welfare Services

In Indiana, a proposed budget by the House threatens to cut funding for child care vouchers significantly, reducing Governor Mike Braun's original allocation from $362 million to $155 million over the next two years. This budget adjustment is concerning for over 7,600 families currently on a waitlist for child care assistance, as expressed by local early childhood advocates. Meanwhile, in Washington, Governor Bob Ferguson's proposed budget includes cuts to the Early Childhood Education and Assistance Program (ECEAP) and the Family Impact Network (FIN), both of which provide crucial support to low-income families and child welfare services. Advocates argue that ECEAP, which serves children from low-income backgrounds, and FIN, which connects families to child welfare services, should be expanded to meet growing demand rather than cut. The proposed reductions could disrupt vital services and support systems for vulnerable families in both states. As budget negotiations continue, the impact on child care and welfare services remains a focal point of concern for community leaders and advocates.