In the aftermath of the pandemic, states across the nation are grappling with the lingering effects on their youngest residents. With federal aid dwindling, states are now taking matters into their own hands, exploring innovative ways to generate new revenue streams to support child care, mental health services, and other critical early childhood programs. This election cycle, voters have overwhelmingly chosen to maintain or increase spending on these vital initiatives, signaling a growing recognition of the importance of investing in the well-being of our children.

Empowering the Next Generation: States Seek Sustainable Funding for Early Childhood Initiatives

Child Care: Addressing the Pandemic's Lasting Impact

The pandemic has exacerbated the longstanding challenges in the child care sector, leading to persistent shortages and ongoing concerns about the mental and behavioral health of young children. In response, several states and local communities have taken bold steps to secure new funding sources to support child care programs and ensure access to affordable, high-quality care.In Washington state, voters rejected a measure that would have repealed a capital gains tax, which has been providing crucial funding for child care subsidies and select programs. This decision ensures the continuation of this vital revenue stream.Similarly, in Travis County, Texas, voters approved a property tax increase to generate over $75 million to create affordable child care spots and mitigate the loss of federal pandemic funds for local child care initiatives.However, not all efforts were successful. In St. Paul, Minnesota, a proposed property tax levy aimed at providing public funding for child care failed to gain traction, despite the city's mayor's hesitation to enact the tax if it passed.

Expanding Access to Early Childhood Health and Education

Beyond child care, states and local communities are also exploring ways to bolster early childhood health, education, and overall well-being. In Platte County, Missouri, voters approved a quarter-cent sales tax increase to create a revenue stream for mental health programs, including early childhood screening.In Pomona County, California, Measure Y aims to reallocate at least 10% of funds from the city's general fund to establish a Department of Children and Youth, which would support youth programs, child care, and parental resources.Elsewhere, in Santa Cruz, California, Measure Z proposed a tax on sugar-sweetened beverages to raise funds for youth mental health and children's programs, a measure that is likely to pass.Colorado's Proposition KK, meanwhile, seeks to establish a $39 million fund by imposing a 6.5% excise tax on guns and ammunition, with $3 million earmarked for behavioral health services for children.

Diaper Duty: Easing the Burden for Families

In addition to these comprehensive initiatives, some states have taken more targeted approaches to support families with young children. In Nevada, voters approved a measure to exempt diapers from sales tax, starting in 2025, providing much-needed relief for parents.

Missed Opportunities: Setbacks in Early Childhood Funding

While the majority of these measures have been successful, there have been some notable setbacks. In Missouri, a proposed amendment to establish a new gambling boat license, with the estimated $14 million in revenue earmarked for public school early childhood literacy programs, failed to gain voter approval.These mixed results underscore the ongoing challenges and the need for continued advocacy and innovative solutions to ensure that every child has access to the resources and support they need to thrive.As states navigate the post-pandemic landscape, the overwhelming support for early childhood initiatives demonstrates a growing recognition of the critical importance of investing in our youngest citizens. By securing sustainable funding sources and implementing comprehensive programs, states are taking a significant step towards building a brighter future for all children.