The Importance of Program Advocacy

Public Comment Period Now Open for New Attendance Regs:
When we talk about Advocacy in the subsidized early learning and care space we often picture traditional advocacy efforts. Going to the state capitol to support a bill, or speak to budgetary needs. Meeting with lawmakers to share your community’s needs, writing letters of support and participating in petitions. All of these actions are indeed vital to the success of advocacy campaigns. 

I believe one participation opportunity is often overlooked, and that would be the opportunity to provide advocacy for program regulation and directives. This week, the CDE announced a 15-day public comment period for a regulation package that aims to address the existing abandonment of care policy. 

Though well intended, the abandonment of care policy as written will become increasingly problematic for contractors as we exit a period of hold-harmless, and enter one where we earn contracts based on enrollment. This has been a top concern of our membership, and now we have movement in this space.  

It is vital that our community reviews these proposed regulations and provides comments to ensure they align with the needs of your children, families and workforce. The new set of regulations largely reflects the voice of much advocacy in this space to create a better policy that supports business operations, as well as opportunities and stability for children. But the regulations can’t be in alignment with the field’s needs, unless they are reflective of your voice. I highly encourage you to review, and participate in this important step of the process. The last day to participate is December 24.  

Thank you for all you do!

CDE Proposed Regulations and Opportunity to Comment: https://www.cde.ca.gov/re/lr/rr/attendance.asp