Report: Michigan's Child Care System Is Grossly Underfunded

LANSING (WWJ) - Michigan is not doing a good enough job when it comes to child care for low-income working parents, according to a report by a nonprofit group.

The Michigan League for Public Policy says the state's child care subsidy program has not adequately met the need; and, since 2005, the number of low-income Michigan parents receiving publicly subsidized care has dropped by two-thirds, from nearly 65,000 to only 22,000.

"Michigan's child care system is grossly under-funded," Michigan League CEO Gilda Jacobs told WWJ Newsradio 950's Beth Fisher. "The state child care eligibility levels have not been adjusted since 2003, and our child care eligibility levels are among the lowest in the country."

Jacobs says child care has become increasingly unaffordable for low-wage workers.

"When these kids are in child care, this is the time that we can have the most influence on their brain development, so it's important to the economy," Jacobs said. "It's also really important for the kids' development."

Jacob said a federal report showed Michigan also doesn't have nearly enough inspectors for child care facilities, with only one for 153 children when the federal standard is one inspector for 50 children.

The Michigan League is recommending that the state legislature do something to address these issues.

Get more details in the Michigan League's report HERE.