Gov. Hochul Signs Child Care Bills, Faces Backlash for Vetoes

Photo: www.governor.ny.gov

Rochester, NY—Governor Kathy Hochul signed a slate of bills last week aimed at improving child care access and family resources in New York, but the celebrations were tempered by criticism following her vetoes of key child care legislation.

Among the bills signed, one [Legislation S.4667A/A.4099A] allows local social services districts to use child care block grant funds during the presumptive eligibility period, enabling quicker access for families awaiting application approvals. Another measure [Legislation S.5481A/A.2898A] requires commercial health insurance plans to cover neuropsychological testing for dyslexia when referred by a physician, addressing gaps in early diagnosis.

Hochul also approved a law [Legislation S.2279C/A.43C] mandating ingredient transparency for diapers sold in New York and another [Legislation S.5992A/A.6168A] granting maternal care patients the right to designate and have a doula present during hospital stays for childbirth.

“With this package of laws, we are making meaningful strides toward making New York a more affordable place to raise your family,” Hochul said in a statement. “By addressing costs and expanding access to essential services, we're ensuring that every parent has the tools they need to thrive.”

However, Hochul faced criticism for vetoing several bills that advocates said were essential to addressing systemic issues in child care access. Most notably, she rejected a bill [A.1303-A/S.4924-A] that would have removed minimum income requirements for families applying for child care assistance, a move advocates say would have broadened eligibility and provided relief for low-income families.

“This veto is a crushing blow to working families, particularly those in communities of color who are disproportionately impacted by the current restrictive policies,” said Rebecca Garrard, Deputy Executive Director of Citizen Action of New York.

“The antiquated requirement that New Yorkers must earn a minimum amount to be eligible for child care assistance has left too many hardworking residents of our state to fend for themselves,” said Assemblywoman Sarah Clark, D-Rochester, co-sponsor of the bill. “As the parameters around work have dramatically changed over the past few decades, we are gravely failing those who work in the gig and contract economy.”

Hochul also vetoed legislation [S5327A] that would have “decoupled” child care assistance eligibility from work requirements, a measure aimed at helping parents access child care regardless of employment status. Advocates argue this would have supported parents pursuing education, training, or recovery from life challenges.

Advocates expressed disappointment but remain hopeful as the governor still has until December 24 to act on other pending child care legislation. Among the bills awaiting her signature is one to address workforce shortages in the child care sector by creating incentives and improving conditions for providers.

Child care reform has emerged as a pressing issue in New York, with families and providers alike calling for more comprehensive solutions. Advocates continue to press Hochul and lawmakers to deliver long-term investments in affordability and access.

“She has the chance to turn this around by signing the remaining bills,” Garrard added. “Families across New York are counting on it.”