AG’s Ruling Sheds Light on Urgent Need for Affordable Child Care

Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes has taken a significant step towards addressing the challenges political candidates with families face. In a recent legal opinion, she clarified that child care expenses are permissible under campaign finance laws.

This ruling aims to support aspiring politicians who juggle family responsibilities. It also sheds light on a pressing issue—accessible, quality child care—which impacts numerous Arizona families.

Joe Barba, senior director of government affairs at First Things First, emphasized that this decision recognizes child care as a necessity for those engaging in the democratic process. He noted the ruling’s implications extend beyond campaigns, highlighting the pressing need for quality child care in professional environments.

Mayes stated, “Arizona’s campaign finance law permits the use of privately raised campaign funds for dependent care if, and only if, the expenses are for the purpose of enabling the candidate or other person to perform campaign activities.”

Given the broader implications, this ruling initiates vital conversations about the role of child care in all sectors of employment. For many Arizonans, child care poses a significant challenge that directly affects their economic well-being.

A survey conducted by the Helios Education Foundation revealed alarming statistics: 28% of working parents with children from birth to age five have exited jobs due to child care difficulties. Furthermore, over half reported being chronically late or needing to leave work early because of these challenges. Such data reveals how the scarcity of affordable child care disrupts both personal and economic stability.

Policymakers must recognize that funding child care is tantamount to investing in the state’s future. Quality early childhood education is foundational for lifelong success, enabling parents to engage fully in the workforce and contribute to economic growth.

Mayes’ ruling highlights the financial realities families face in public service. To capitalize on this momentum, lawmakers need to address the broader child care crisis affecting many Arizona families.

Legislators are urged to implement comprehensive strategies to enhance access to quality child care. Suggested measures include:

• Investing in quality early childhood programs and services.
• Expanding child care assistance for college students and low- to middle-income working families.
• Offering tax incentives for businesses providing on-site child care or related benefits.
• Streamlining regulations that facilitate the establishment of child care facilities in underserved areas.

By tackling the child care issue decisively, Arizona can support its working families, enhance economic performance, and give every child the chance to flourish. The attorney general’s recent ruling serves as a catalyst for meaningful policy reform aimed at benefiting Arizona families.

Joe Barba is the senior director of government affairs for First Things First.