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The Build Back Better Act: Increasing Affordability, Access, and Quality of Child Care for Infants and Toddlers

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The federal Build Back Better Act proposes a historic investment in the care of infants and toddlers that increases access and affordability by raising income eligibility levels in many states, capping family copayments, and setting provider reimbursement rates based on the cost (not price) of providing care. Research on the impact of the receipt of child care subsidies and state spending on subsidies show a positive impact on families’ access to needed services, the ability of parents to work, and families’ ability to have sufficient household resources.

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A small child sits on a soft mat, focused on stacking colorful rings and holding a toy, while a caregiver engages nearby in a warm home setting

Renewed Support from the Buffett Early Childhood Fund Fuels Continued Growth and Impact at the Prenatal-to-3 Policy Impact Center

Funding will support policy research and evidence translation to inform state action and improve outcomes for young children and families As families navigate evolving social and economic challenges, advancing evidence-based policy solutions is critical. The
Washington State Capitol Legislative Building

The Prenatal-to-3 Policy Landscape in 2026

This blog post outlines the state policy changes in effect since the release of our 2025 Roadmap, providing timely and up-to-date context for consideration as policy discussions continue in 2026.
This blog post outlines the state policy changes in effect since the release of our 2025 Roadmap, providing timely and up-to-date context for consideration as policy discussions continue in 2026.
Photograph of a young girl smiling

New Reports Illustrate Historical Patterns of Inequity in Policy Design and Their Impact Across Generations

Tracing policy decisions from early America to today, the reports reveal how long-standing choices continue to shape access and outcomes for families The Prenatal-to-3 Policy Impact Center at Vanderbilt University published the first installment in