To the Editor:

As a parent and concerned citizen, I want to thank Senator Kirsten Gillibrand for co-sponsoring the Child Care Availability and Affordability Act. At a time when so many families are struggling to afford child care, this legislation is a critical step toward ensuring parents can stay in the workforce while their children receive the quality care they deserve.

In Albany County, the cost of full-time infant care exceeds $16,000 per year. For families with more than one child, these expenses quickly become overwhelming. Such high costs put immense financial strain on parents, forcing many to make difficult choices between maintaining their careers and providing care at home.

This bipartisan bill would ease that burden by expanding tax credits for families, increasing pre-tax savings options, and offering incentives for businesses to support child care for their employees. These measures provide real relief and help create a more sustainable child care system.

It is encouraging to see lawmakers working across party lines to address this crisis. I urge Congress to follow Senator Gillibrand’s lead and pass this bill, ensuring that families in upstate New York — and across the country — get the child care support they need.

Heather Kumta

Guilderland