"Childcare Crisis: Federal Funding Expiration Threatens Millions"

The expiration of pandemic emergency relief funds from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) on September 30 could lead to the closure of up to 70,000 child care centers and the loss of child care for as many as 3.2 million children. The funding had helped stabilize the child care industry by increasing pay for workers and keeping costs lower for parents. Without the funding, experts warn that parents may have to cut back on work or pay higher fees for child care, highlighting the need for increased federal support in the child care sector.