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Governor Kathy Hochul has announced a proposal to launch pilot programs for universal childcare in New York State, with Dutchess County as one of the key locations. During a visit to Poughkeepsie on Thursday (January 14), Hochul revealed plans to allocate $20 million to Dutchess County for testing free childcare services for children from newborns to three years old. Broome and Monroe counties are also set to receive $20 million each for similar pilot programs.
The initiative is part of a broader $4.5 billion investment aimed at providing universal childcare for children under five across New York. Hochul's plan includes partnerships with local counties to develop new models for childcare services, focusing on accessibility and affordability for families regardless of income. If approved by state lawmakers, the programs could be operational by next year, with the ultimate goal of expanding free childcare statewide in the coming years.
Dutchess County Executive Sue Serino expressed support for the initiative, highlighting its potential to strengthen the economy and support working families. "Childcare is one of the smartest, most impactful investments we can make," she said. Monroe County Executive Adam Bello also praised the program, emphasizing the importance of affordable childcare for local economies and working families.
Governor Hochul aims to ensure universal access to Pre-K by the 2028-2029 school year, alongside other initiatives like expanding the Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) and launching an Office of Child Care and Early Education to oversee these efforts. The pilot programs are expected to support up to 1,000 childcare seats for children aged 0-3 in each participating county.
Mayor Zohran Mamdani of New York City is also collaborating with Governor Hochul to provide free childcare for two-year-olds and strengthen the existing 3K program, furthering the state's commitment to universal childcare.