I was disappointed to read the recent Monsey Scoop article, “Senator Bill Weber Advocates For Child Care Funding to Help Rockland County Families.”

No one disputes that child care is one of the most urgent issues facing families in Rockland County. Parents are struggling with skyrocketing costs, providers are facing enormous challenges, and many families are desperately hoping for relief. That is exactly why public officials must be careful not to create expectations that do not match reality.

The article gives the impression that significant new child care funding has been secured for Rockland County. According to advocates who work on this issue every day, that simply is not the case.

The $155 million referenced in the announcement is not new funding specifically secured for Rockland County. In fact, advocates familiar with the issue estimate Rockland’s share will be approximately $2 million. While every dollar helps, that amount falls dramatically short of what is needed. Those working directly with child care providers and families estimate that Rockland requires more than $40 million annually to adequately address the current funding gap.

It is also important to understand that the state budget was passed by the Democratic majority. Senator Weber’s vote was not needed for passage, and there was no requirement for legislative leaders to negotiate with him or secure his support. While every elected official has the right to advocate for issues affecting their constituents, taking credit for statewide funding approved by others is misleading.

Perhaps most troubling is the confusion this announcement has caused. One of Rockland’s leading child care askonim expressed frustration after being inundated with calls from parents who believed substantial new assistance was now available. Families saw the headlines and understandably assumed meaningful relief had arrived. Unfortunately, that is simply not the reality.

Meanwhile, the real work continues. Community advocates, providers, and local leaders remain engaged in discussions with state officials in an effort to secure the level of funding Rockland families actually need. Assemblyman Aron Wieder has been working tirelessly behind the scenes on this issue, but despite ongoing efforts, no promises have been made and no comprehensive solution has been approved.

Credit should also be given to local leaders, including Joe Rand, whose advocacy helped bring Governor Hochul together directly with Rockland child care providers so she could hear firsthand about the challenges facing working families. Those conversations continue, and the fight for meaningful funding is far from over.

Child care is too important for political victory laps. Families need real solutions, real funding, and real relief. Until those goals are achieved, elected officials should focus less on press releases and more on delivering results.

Etty S.
Chestnut Ridge

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