State Representatives Robert Leadbeter and Kate Klunk announced on June 3 a legislative proposal to give parents and providers more influence over childcare policy in Pennsylvania. The legislation would establish a public board for the Office of Child Development and Early Learning, composed of parents and providers from each Early Learning Resource Center region across the state.
The proposed board aims to improve transparency within the Office of Child Development and Early Learning, provide oversight, review licensing procedures and policies, and help shape agency policy. This initiative is part of the House Republican Caucus’ Childcare Affordability Legislative Package.
“As a father, I recognize the importance of utilizing expertise from those with boots on the ground to make sound judgments on policy impacting our young people,” said Leadbeter. “By giving parents and providers more of a say, they can offer insight into real-world application of these regulations and create informed decisions. Leveraging their knowledge to improve the status quo will result in more effective policies, stronger compliance, and better outcomes for children and families.”
Klunk said, “Ensuring parents and providers have a meaningful role in shaping childcare oversight is essential to building a system that truly works for families. Strengthening transparency and inviting those closest to the challenges into the decision-making process will lead to smarter policies and better outcomes for children across Pennsylvania. I am hopeful our colleagues will see the value of this proposal, so we can create transformative change within this essential industry, which supports our children and families.”
A 2026 Archbridge Institute study found that Pennsylvania is the third-most regulated state in the nation for childcare. The Office of Child Development and Early Learning is overseen by both the Department of Human Services (DHS) and Department of Education (PDE), implementing most state- and federally funded early learning plans including licensing standards, capacity-building initiatives, quality improvement measures for childcare centers, as well as eligibility determination for subsidized services.
Leadbeter represents Pennsylvania’s 109th Legislative District; he supports local farmers, small businesses, working families; advocates for reducing taxes; leads initiatives enhancing personal freedoms; operates from Catawissa; focuses on committees such as Communications & Technology—all according to, the official website.
