MADISON – Today, Representative Lisa Subeck (D-Madison) joined fellow Democratic legislators in introducing a bill (LRB 3322/1) that would invest $480 million to expand access to high quality, affordable childcare across Wisconsin. The proposal mirrors a provision from Governor Evers’s 2025-27 executive budget, which was recently cut by Republicans on the Joint Finance Committee.
“Childcare is not a luxury – it’s a necessity for working families, for our economy, and for the healthy development of our children,” said Rep. Subeck. “This bill is about doing what’s right for our kids, supporting hardworking parents, and making sure our communities continue to thrive.”
The legislation would continue and expand the Child Care Counts (CCC) program, which has served as a financial lifeline for childcare providers during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. Funded through the American Rescue Plan Act, Child Care Counts is set to expire in June. Without action, Wisconsin faces a significant collapse of its already strained childcare system.
According to a survey recently released by the Wisconsin Early Childhood Association, the stakes could not be higher. If funding ends without a comparable replacement, one in four childcare providers in Wisconsin, particularly in rural areas, say they may be forced to close their doors. Many others report they would have no choice but to reduce the hours of care they offer, limit the number of children they serve, and extend already long waitlists. Families across the state would face steep tuition increases, with 77% of providers planning rate hikes and some estimating costs for infant and toddler care could rise by more than $200 per month.
“Families across Wisconsin are already struggling to find and afford childcare, and we are on the brink of losing even more capacity,” said Rep. Subeck. “If we fail to act now, parents will be forced out of the workforce, kids will lose access to quality care, and small businesses will lose employees. The impact on our communities will be devastating.”
Rep. Subeck emphasized that this is not just a funding issue. It is a reflection of our values.
“This bill is an investment in our children, our families, and the early educators who care for them every day,” she said. “We owe it to every parent working hard to provide for their family, and every child who deserves a strong start, to make childcare affordable and accessible.”
Representative Subeck represents the 79th Assembly District and serves as Chair of the Assembly Democratic Caucus.
