2019 Legislative Agenda Issue Update

FY20 State Budget

Supporting critical investments for social service programs is one of nine issues on the Alliance's 2019 Legislative Agenda, along with two additional issues being monitored. This issue newsletter is part of a series that provides more information on each priority issue on the Agenda. This Agenda is crafted by the Alliance Steering Committee annually in partnership with early childhood organizations that are advancing policy solutions through the legislative process.

Continue reading for more information on this priority issue, including data and talking points, connections to the lead organizations and other partners, and advocacy tools.

Data and Talking Points

"Early childhood programs continue to advocate for needed funding increases in the FY20 budget."

Vermont is Currently Experiencing a Level-Funding Cycle

There is no relief in sight to the prolonged trend of level funding social service programs like Children's Integrated Services, the Child Care Financial Assistance Program, and housing. These budget decisions are critical not just to lower-income Vermonters but to the entire community. All Vermonters are impacted when these services cannot function well because of chronic under-funding.

The Alliance Advocates for a Budget That Addresses the Needs of the People

The Alliance works with diverse organizations to oppose cuts to essential programs and direct services in the Human Services and other sections of the state budget, as well as actively investigates potential revenue sources in support of a state budget based on needs, not revenue limitations. The Alliance continues to press for a serious discussion about tax reform and ending the level-funding cycle.

Lead Organization: Vermont Early Childhood Advocacy Alliance

Resources and Advocacy Tools 

Attend a State Budget Hearing

Advocates are encouraged to attend one of the state budget public hearings on the evening of Monday, February 25 in locations around the state. The House and Senate Appropriations Committees are seeking public input on the Governor's Recommended FY20 State Budget.

Find locations and times in the upcoming events listing on the Alliance website. Contact Matt Levin with the Alliance for testimony support by emailing matt@vecaa.org. 

Schedule an Advocacy Training on Legislative Issues 

Schedule an Alliance training for parents and professionals interested in strengthening advocacy techniques and communication skills. Be informed and ensure your voice is heard on issues impacting Vermont's young children, families, and the early childhood workforce.

Early Childhood Day at the Legislature - 3/13/19

Registration has opened for this important annual day of advocacy and skill-building workshops. 

Early Childhood Day at the Legislature (ECDL) is an annual day of advocacy, education, and networking co-hosted by the Vermont Early Childhood Advocacy Alliance, Let's Grow Kids, and Building Bright Futures, that brings together early childhood professionals and providers, parents, employers, business owners, and policymakers to engage on early childhood issues.

The agenda for this 25th annual event includes issue and advocacy workshops, lunch with Legislators, state house tours, a rally, a birthday party celebrating 25 years of ECDL, and more. 

Register online, find a detailed agenda, and download the registration flyer to share with your networks (all at the link). 

The Vermont Early Childhood Advocacy Alliance is a statewide advocacy coalition formed in 2000 of early childhood professionals and providers, parents, and employers committed to improving public policies that impact young children from birth to age eight on issues of health, safety, food security, economic security, and early care and education.

The Alliance crafts an annual Legislative Agenda in partnership with early childhood organizations, provides year-round advocacy support, and facilitates meaningful interactions with policymakers at key times during the decision making process.

QUICK LINKS

2018 Legislative Agenda Wrap-Up

Meet the Members of the Alliance

Meet the Alliance Staff 

 

15 State Street | Montpelier , Vermont 05602

https://vecaa.org

The Vermont Early Childhood Advocacy Alliance is a program of the Vermont Community Loan Fund.

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