The Senate has restored $24 million to go towards Early Childhood Education after it was previously cut in the House to balance the state budget.
“While we were disheartened when the House cut that money out, we still remained hopeful because what we heard from the House members was that they would work with the Senate once the Revenue Estimating Conference came in because they were really thinking there would be more revenue,” said Louisiana Policy Institute for Children Executive Director Libbie Sonnier.
Sonnier said this means there will be 2,000 additional spots for young children to get a head start on their education. She said it’s so important because those children are more likely to read on grade level by third grade, complete high school, and go to college.
“And then they’re more likely to be in the workforce working and have better health outcomes and reductions in rates of criminal justice as well as having to need public assistance to be able to be a part of society,” said Sonnier.
A lack of early childhood education programs can be costly. Sonnier said the state loses $1.3 billion annually when there are childcare breakdowns and businesses lose $762 million each year without a dependable workforce.
“Making sure mommies and daddies and families go to work today and it’s making sure that we’re preparing our citizens when they get to be 18, 19 and older that they’re able to be full participants in our workforce and stay in Louisiana,” said Sonnier.
Sonnier said there’s a 13% return on investment for every dollar spent on early childhood education.
