CORREA, SMITH INTRODUCE BIPARTISAN BRIGHT BEGINNINGS ACT TO EXPAND CHILDCARE FOR CHILDREN WITH DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, Representatives Lou Correa (D-CA) and Chris Smith (R-NJ) introduced the Bright Beginnings Act, bipartisan legislation that would establish a federal tax credit of up to $10,000 per year for childcare centers and providers to purchase the equipment needed to serve children with developmental disabilities.

"Every child deserves a safe, supportive place to learn and grow, and every parent deserves peace of mind while they work. The Bright Beginnings Act helps childcare providers get the tools they need to welcome children with developmental disabilities, and helps families stay in the workforce without sacrificing their child's care," said Rep. Correa.

Approximately 1 in 5 children in the United States, or 14.5 million, have special healthcare needs, and 1 in 12 children diagnosed with a developmental disability require specialized support and accommodations. Yet 27 percent of parents of children with disabilities report difficulty finding adequate childcare. Delayed or absent services limit children's development and often force families to cut work hours or leave their jobs entirely, deepening financial strain.

"Parents of children with disabilities go above and beyond to provide for their children, while often shouldering additional economic burdens associated with costs of care. Too often these families are forced between taking care of a loved one and earning a paycheck. The Bright Beginnings tax credit would assist eligible childcare centers and enable them to meet the costs of providing safe and appropriate services for children with disabilities, and peace of mind for their parents who need to work to support them," said Rep. Smith.

The Bright Beginnings Act encourages childcare centers to invest in specialized equipment and create environments where children can grow and engage in the ways that best suit them. Specifically, the bill:

"Access to high-quality, inclusive child care can make a meaningful difference in the lives of children with autism and their families, yet too many providers lack the resources needed to create fully accessible and supportive environments where every child can thrive," said Keith Wargo, President and CEO of Autism Speaks. "We are grateful for Representative Correa's leadership in introducing the Bright Beginnings Act and recognizing the importance of ensuring child care settings are equipped to serve children with autism and other developmental disabilities. By promoting access and innovation in child care settings, this legislation would help providers strengthen their ability to support children with autism - expanding their opportunities to learn, develop and thrive alongside their peers from the very start."

"Every child deserves the opportunity to learn, play, and thrive in a supportive childcare environment. Tax credits that help providers invest in accommodations for Autistic children and children with developmental disabilities can reduce financial barriers and expand access to inclusive care. The Autism Society of America applauds this legislation and its commitment to helping more children participate, connect, and reach their full potential," said Joseph Joyce, President and CEO of the Autism Society of America.

The bill is endorsed by Access Ready Inc., Autism Speaks, Autism Society of America, Easterseals, TDI for Access, and The Learning Disabilities Association for America.

View the bill text here.

Together on the Spectrum

In conjunction with the bill's introduction, Rep. Correa will host Together on the Spectrum this Saturday in Santa Ana. The event grew out of Rep. Correa's desire to create a space to bring children and families together. The free community event is open to neurodivergent youth ages 5-18 and their families, and will feature activities and information on autism and neurodiversity, Regional Center services, family support and advocacy, therapy and developmental services, and safety and emergency preparedness. Federal resources will also be available. Participating organizations include Corazones Especiales, Regional Center of Orange County, Santa Ana PD, TACA (The Autism Community in Action), United Across Borders Foundation, Easterseals, and the Orange County Children's Therapeutic Arts Center, among others.

Press interested in attending should RSVP to [email protected].