Legislators, community members call for increased child care funding in state budget

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- With federal funding for child care dwindling, state leaders have been called on to invest in the youngest generation. 

On Wednesday, June 11, the state Capitol held a forum discussing the difficulty of balancing work, life, and reliable child care. 

Developmental services are essential for children in their early years yet are often expensive or unavailable. Some parents have to work fewer hours or take night shifts in order to provide care. 

Wisconsin lawmakers expressed urgency in increasing child care funding in the state budget. 

"If they can do the investment, we can start supporting our early investment centers, and that is the best return we will see in our society," said Alex Jones (D-Waunakee).

"Child care is a part of the continuity of their lives and careers, and if we don't do something about it, it will be gone here," said Evan Dannells, Main Street Alliance.

If approved, an additional $480 million would be added to next year's state budget.