Child care providers across Oxnard, Riverside, and Sacramento showed what union power looks like as we rallied, spoke out, and delivered one message loud and clear:
DON’T FORCE US TO CLOSE OUR DOORS!
Providers are being pushed to the brink. Groceries, gas, rent — every basic expense has skyrocketed while reimbursement rates haven’t changed. And now, new training and reporting requirements are being rolled out without the funding, guidance, or flexibility providers need to succeed.
Child care providers are done carrying a broken system on our backs. Tuesday’s actions made it clear: we’re organized, we’re united, and we’re demanding change. Too many providers are being forced to choose between staying open or going into debt. Many are already closing their doors — and when that happens, families lose care, lose work hours, and sometimes lose their jobs entirely.
Our Demands to California Legislators:
- Pass AB 1981 — the True Cost of Care Act, which modernizes California’s outdated reimbursement system.
- Pass AB 2379 — ensuring providers know our rights and can navigate the system without fear or confusion.
- Increase provider pay NOW — because child care workers cannot survive on rates that haven’t kept up with the cost of living.
- Amend and support new provider requirements — making sure new training and reporting rules come with real funding, clear guidance, and flexibility.
These aren’t optional improvements. They’re the changes providers need to keep our doors open.
