2023-24 Legislative Priorities
Funding for Childcare
- Extend ARPA funding until the next funding cycle.
- Some KY centers will lose up to $25,000 per month without sustained funding forcing us to close many childcare centers.
- Increased staff wages have far exceeded the pace of childcare fees.
- Centers that can keep pace with increased rates will be forced to serve only those that can pay the higher rates. One of our centers would need to increase rates by 67% to break even.
- Add another round of non-profit assistance grants to be used for youth programming.
- Increase CCAP reimbursement rates.
- Make licensing requirements more efficient and consistent
- Strengthen Child Care Assistance Program Funding including expansion of available high- quality preschool, afterschool, and summer learning options for low-income families.
- Increase funding for out-of-school time programs aimed at closing the achievement gap.
Eliminate Sales Tax for Non-Profits
- Exempt non-profits
- Remove taxation of all youth programming (sports, afterschool programming, summer camp, swim lessons).
- We provide over $7 million a year in financial assistance and subsidies for children, families and seniors to participate in YMCA programs and membership
- With a state that suffers from horrible health outcomes, we all need to work together to reduce the health outcomes in KY.
- Drowning is a leading cause of death in children. We need to do everything we can to eliminate barriers to prevent drowning.
Become a Y Advocate!
Believing that everyone, regardless of age, income or background, deserves to be healthy, confident, connected and secure, the Y is a powerful ally and advocate for our communities.
With a focus on youth development, healthy living and social responsibility, the Y collaborates with national and community-based leaders and policymakers to increase the resources and support that empower individuals, families and communities to learn, grow and thrive.
As an advocate of the Y, you can help:
- Influence policies and initiatives that help youth develop healthy behaviors, values, and life skills
- Prevent and combat chronic disease
- Build trust and understanding among community groups and decision makers
- Positively impact societal issues of importance to the nation and your community
Advocate in support of a movement working every day to build healthier communities. Interested in joining our Y advocacy action network? Contact David Ozmore for more information.