Congressmen Davis and Vindman Introduce Legislation to Help Fund Childcare for First Responders
Washington, D.C. — Congressmen Don Davis (NC-01) and Eugene Vindman (VA-07) introduced H.R. 10614, Providing Childcare for Firefighters and EMS Act, legislation that would help states fund childcare services for the minor children of firefighters, emergency medical technicians (EMTs), and paramedics during shift work and non-traditional hours.
The Providing Childcare for Firefighters and EMS Act would authorize the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to award competitive grants to help states fund childcare programs tailored to the shift schedules and non-traditional work hours of covered first responders.
“First responders across eastern North Carolina work long shifts, nights, weekends, and holidays to keep our communities safe, but finding childcare that works around those hours can be a real challenge,” said Davis. “I am proud to co-lead the Providing Childcare for Firefighters and EMS Act to help communities expand childcare options that reflect the realities of first responders’ schedules. Our firefighters, EMTs, and paramedics are there for us at all hours of the day, so we should ensure their families have the support they need to continue serving our communities.”
Grants would be awarded for three-year periods, with matching requirements increasing over the grant term. Eligible beneficiaries would include career and volunteer firefighters, certified emergency medical technicians, and licensed paramedics who are employed by or affiliated with state, local, tribal, or territorial agencies.
“As a father, I know how important reliable, affordable childcare really is for families across Virginia. Our community's firefighters, EMTs, and paramedics deserve to know their kids are taken care of when they answer the call to serve,” said Vindman. “This legislation will support more childcare options for our neighbors that work long hours. I will always fight for Virginia’s families and first responders to succeed.”