A significant discussion unfolded during the Oregon House Committee on Early Childhood and Human Services meeting on May 29, 2025, focusing on House Bill 2593, which aimed to reform the Employment Related Day Care (ERDC) program. The bill, which sought to change the program's name to enhance accessibility for student parents, faced unexpected fiscal challenges that hindered its progress through the legislative session.

Advocacy manager Delina Binyam from Family Forward and Andrea Havercamp from the American Federation of Teachers, Oregon, highlighted the pressing need for reform, noting that many student parents remain unaware of their eligibility for the ERDC program due to its current name. This lack of awareness has contributed to a growing waitlist, limiting access for working parents and student families.

The committee discussed the alarming statistics: since student eligibility was established in 2023, they represent less than 8% of the ERDC enrollment, with student parents making up only 2.5% of the program's caseload. This stark underrepresentation underscores the urgent need for outreach and enrollment strategies to support these families.

Despite the setback with House Bill 2593, the committee announced plans to form a work group during the interim. This group will include various stakeholders, including the Department of Early Learning and Care, legislators, and student parents, to continue addressing the barriers faced by families seeking childcare support. The work group aims to gather data on enrollment trends and develop strategies to improve access to the ERDC program.

The discussions at this meeting reflect a critical moment for Oregon's childcare support system, emphasizing the need for continued advocacy and legislative action to ensure that student parents can access the resources necessary to pursue their education and contribute to the economy.