Connecticut Office of Early Childhood establishes Tri-Share Child Care Matching Program

Connecticut's Senate Bill 1, introduced on April 10, 2025, aims to tackle the pressing issue of child care affordability by establishing a state-wide Tri-Share Child Care Matching Program. This initiative seeks to alleviate the financial burden on families by sharing child care costs among employers, employees, and the Universal Preschool Trust.

Under the proposed program, participating employers will cover at least one-third of the full-day child care costs for their employees' children enrolled in licensed early care and education programs. Employees will contribute a maximum of seven percent of their annual household income towards these costs, while the remaining balance will be funded by the Universal Preschool Trust. This structure is designed to make quality child care more accessible to working families, addressing a significant barrier many face in balancing work and family responsibilities.

The bill has sparked discussions among lawmakers and community advocates, with supporters emphasizing its potential to enhance workforce participation and economic stability for families. Critics, however, have raised concerns about the sustainability of funding from the Universal Preschool Trust and the administrative complexities involved in implementing the program. The Office of Early Childhood will oversee the program, selecting an organization to manage eligibility, payments, and data collection, which could streamline operations but also raises questions about efficiency and oversight.

The implications of Senate Bill 1 extend beyond immediate financial relief. By making child care more affordable, the bill could encourage more parents to enter or remain in the workforce, potentially boosting the state’s economy. Additionally, it aligns with broader goals of improving early childhood education access and supporting families in Connecticut.

As the bill moves through the legislative process, its success will depend on continued dialogue among stakeholders, including employers, employees, and child care providers. If passed, the Tri-Share Child Care Matching Program could become a vital resource for families, fostering a more supportive environment for working parents and their children.