House Republican Policy Committee Chairman David H. Rowe announced on April 29 that he, along with Representative Scott Barger and other lawmakers, will host a public hearing titled “Making Childcare Affordable for Pennsylvania Families.” The event is scheduled for Thursday, April 30 at the Blair Regional YMCA in Hollidaysburg.
The hearing aims to address concerns about how existing childcare regulations may be limiting providers, increasing costs for families, and affecting workforce participation. Lawmakers plan to gather testimony from individuals involved in childcare provision and local business leaders.
Testifiers will include Sharon Jones, executive director of the Blair Regional YMCA; Bill Young, director of compensation, benefits and risk at Sheetz; Mark Lingenfelter, lead pastor of Grace Fellowship Church; and Rodney Green, founder of Rodney L. Green Consulting.
According to the announcement from Rowe’s office, the session is intended to examine whether current regulatory requirements are creating barriers for both providers and parents seeking affordable care options. The event will be livestreamed online barring any technical difficulties.
Lawmakers say they hope the hearing will provide insight into potential policy changes that could improve access to affordable childcare while supporting workforce needs across Pennsylvania.
