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Press Release

Rep. Cuellar Cosponsors Bill to Reduce Child Care Costs, Boost Workforce

Proposal returns federal dollars to families through affordable child care

Matthew Landini, DC Press Secretary, matt@mail.house.gov, August 6, 2025

WASHINGTON — Today, Congressman Henry Cuellar, Ph.D. (TX-28) joined a bipartisan coalition in support of bringing down the rising cost of child care and easing the burden on working families across South Texas and the nation.

"As the cost of living continues to climb, affordable child care has become out of reach for too many parents," said Congressman Cuellar. "No parent should have to choose between staying in the workforce and caring for their child, which is why I'm cosponsoring the Child Care Availability and Affordability Act. It's time we fix this broken system and give families the support they deserve."

In 2024, the average cost of child care surpassed $13,000 per child – more than many families can afford. Nearly 60% of parents working part-time or not at all say they would return to full-time work if affordable care were available. Closing this gap will strengthen the workforce, reduce financial stress on families, and help local businesses fill critical job openings.

The Child Care Availability and Affordability Act offers a targeted, bipartisan solution by strengthening and modernizing three key tax provisions to lower out-of-pocket costs for families, expand access to quality care, and empower more parents to return to work full- time. The bill is endorsed by the Problem Solvers Caucus – a bipartisan group ofRepublicans and Democrats committed to advancing common-sense solutions – and reflects their mission to work across the aisle to deliver real results for American families. In addition, the legislation creates new incentives for businesses to offer child care support, helping employers attract and retain talent while easing one of the biggest burdens facing working families today.

"As a father, I understand how important – and difficult – it is for parents to find affordable child care that they can trust," continued Congressman Cuellar. "This bipartisan effort will help working families stay on the job without having to choose between their paycheck and their kids. It also gives small businesses new ways to support their workers. That’s good for families, good for employers, and good for our economy."

"By investing in child care affordability, we’re investing in the future of our economy. I’ll keep working across the aisle to ensure South Texas families have the tools they need to succeed – both at home and in the workplace."