Acknowledging the pivotal role of early childhood development in shaping communities, Assemblyman Matt Slater (R,C-Yorktown) proposed a bill (A.08579) offering a partial exemption from real property taxes, which has been approved by the Real Property Taxation committee.

Teaming up with Majority and Chair of the Committee Jaime Williams, this proposal aims to incentivize municipalities to actively promote the creation and expansion of child care centers. The tax relief will enable these organizations to invest in and sustain high-quality child care programs, ensuring accessible and affordable options for families.

“The pandemic proved child care is an essential service that keeps our economy moving. However, in many cases, the cost of child care is equivalent to a second mortgage payment. A driving factor in the high cost of child care is the property tax burden these businesses face. Other states are addressing this issue by authorizing property tax exemptions for child care facilities, which instantly reduces the costs passed onto families. I applaud the Department of Taxation for allowing the same in New York state, making child care more accessible and affordable for our families,” said Slater.