S5327A

The New York State Senate passed legislation Tuesday that clarifies how childcare subsidies can be funded under a prior decoupling law, allowing state and federal dollars to supplement local funds. Senate Print 5327A, sponsored by Sen. Brisport, makes a technical amendment to 2023 legislation that relaxed working hour requirements for parents receiving childcare assistance, enabling them to access care for hours beyond their exact work schedule. The bill maintains work requirements while expanding eligibility to include parents engaged in job training or educational activities. The measure passed 57-5, with Sens. Gallivan, Griffo, Oberacker, Weik, and Walczyk voting in opposition. During debate, Sen. Murray sought clarification that the bill does not constitute state-funded babysitting without work requirements, while Sen. Weik raised concerns that the legislation does not address childcare needs for parents working night shifts. Sen. Brisport acknowledged a separate bill addresses night and weekend shift coverage. In explaining his affirmative vote, Brisport advocated for eliminating all work requirements for childcare, arguing that childcare should be treated as a universal public good and right, comparable to public school enrollment.