On the first day of the 2026 legislative session, Assemblywoman Michaelle C. Solages joined parents, young children, labor unions, and childcare advocates at the State Capitol to call for a bold, statewide commitment to universal childcare and early education.

Hosted by New Yorkers United for Child Care and UAW Local 9A, the rally at the Million Dollar Staircase brought together families from across New York State to demand a guarantee of 3-K and Pre-K for every child, and dedicated funding to expand childcare to younger children through 2 Care in New York City.

“As a legislator and a working parent, I see every day how the lack of affordable, reliable childcare pushes families into impossible choices,” said Assemblywoman Solages. “When parents cannot find or afford childcare, they leave jobs they love or cut back hours, and that hurts families, small businesses, and our entire economy. Prioritizing childcare is one of the smartest moves New York can make, it keeps parents working, supports local employers, and gives children the strong start they deserve.”

Families on Long Island and across New York continue to face some of the highest childcare costs in the country, often paying as much as a mortgage or college tuition for a single child. At the same time, childcare providers and educators struggle to keep their doors open, facing chronic underfunding and high turnover in the workforce.

“Strengthening our childcare system is essential to the advancement of our communities,” Solages continued. “This is about stability for working parents, dignity for the childcare workforce, and opportunity for children in every region of our state.”

Assemblywoman Solages has been a strong champion for childcare and early education, partnering with parents, providers, and labor to advance policies that expand access, improve quality, and stabilize the workforce. As the session begins, she will continue working with colleagues in the Assembly and Senate to secure long term investments that meet the needs of families from Long Island to every corner of New York State.

Residents who wish to share their experiences with childcare, or learn more about legislative efforts, are encouraged to contact Assemblywoman Solages’ office.