The Ounce releases 2019 Legislative Summary

In 2019, a number of noteworthy bills in Illinois became law—many of which are important for children, families and early childhood practitioners. Summaries of relevant legislation, including bills led by the Ounce’s Illinois Policy Team and its advocacy partners can be found in this year’s summary.

Read the Legislative Summary

Take action for our earliest learners

Be a digital advocate!

Visit our refreshed Advocacy Center, which highlights a variety of issues the Ounce is committed to addressing—quality early learning programs, home visiting, early intervention and affordable child care. Easily contact your lawmakers, using sample language or customizing your message with a personal anecdote.

Our legislators need to hear why early childhood programs and services are important to you!

Read about important updates happening now

Significant changes to Illinois’ child care programs

Learn how CCAP is providing better opportunities to access child care

Many children and families experiencing the disruptions of financial hardship or homelessness do not often experience the benefits of quality early childhood programs. However, the Illinois Department of Human Services has now implemented several changes to its Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP)—all of which provide working families better opportunities to access child care for their young children.

Learn more about these changes to CCAP.

Illinois’ FY21 budget process is underway

Join us in requesting a $150 million increase to the Early Childhood Block Grant

The Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) hearings are the first step in determining next year's early childhood education budget. Join the Ounce and take the opportunity to help shape the upcoming budget to ensure it addresses the great need for families to access high-quality early childhood education and experiences.

Learn how to submit a budget request and take a look at several resources the Ounce has prepared to help make this process as easy as possible—suggested talking points, sample budget form responses and background on the current state budget.

You're going to want to hear what this policy leader has to say

“I’d like to encourage us to be bold”

Ireta Gasner has been with the Ounce’s Illinois Policy Team for 15 years, at first traveling across the state to gather input and support for Preschool for All while it was still an idea. Now, she spends most time in the state’s capital of Springfield working to continue the great legacy of widespread, bipartisan support for early childhood investments with lawmakers.

Check out this interview with Ireta where she shares her passion for advocacy and discusses what the Illinois Policy Team is focused on this upcoming legislative session.

A staggering statistic that can't be ignored

Identifying solutions for reducing maternal morbidity

In Illinois, during 2008 - 2016, an average of 73 women died each year within one year of pregnancy (according to the Illinois Department of Public Health). This frighteningly high maternal mortality rate, high morbidity rates and vast racial disparities prompted action at the statehouse this fiscal year with the passage of several bills.

In addition to changes in health care practices, the supportive services of doulas and home visitors have a role in building a continuum of solutions for maternal mortality and morbidity.

Learn more about what the state is currently doing, and what still needs to be done to solve for preventable maternal deaths.

The Ounce of Prevention Fund gives children in poverty the best chance for success in school and in life by advocating for and providing the highest-quality care and education from birth to age five.

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