Latest News from State Capitol and 55th District

January 8, 2026

Proposal Would Protect Child Care Funding

When policymakers identify a problem, naturally they strive to develop solutions that improve outcomes and efficiencies. However, even the most well-intentioned policies can at times create opportunities for misuse by those acting in bad faith.

Unfortunately, this appears to have been the case in Minnesota, where an ongoing investigation alleges that some child care providers accepted government funding while not operating legitimate programs. If this is the case, the situation not only undermines the integrity of public assistance systems but also diverts resources away from families and providers who rely on them.

This raises an important question for Pennsylvania: Could similar vulnerabilities exist within our own child care funding programs?

Child care is an issue of critical importance, not only to families but to the state’s economic health. Reliable, affordable child care enables young parents to balance career responsibilities while contributing to the workforce. Numerous economic studies articulate that access to high-quality child care strengthens communities, supports workforce participation and improves long-term economic growth.

For children, the benefits are equally significant. Early education and social engagement are proven foundations for academic success and lifelong learning.

Upon learning of the situation in Minnesota, I began developing legislation to ensure that Pennsylvania’s substantial investment in child care is appropriately safeguarded. Titled the Protect Child Care Funding Act, it would authorize the Pennsylvania Auditor General to conduct independent audits of child care programs administered by the Department of Human Services (DHS). The proposal also mandates full cooperation from DHS to guarantee transparency and accountability throughout the process.

I am introducing this legislation in partnership with House Children and Youth Committee Republican Chair Kate Klunk (R-York), who shares my commitment to protecting the integrity of child care funding.

In the previous fiscal year, Pennsylvania invested more than $1 billion in child care initiatives, combining both state and federal resources under the administration of DHS. Given the size and scope of this investment, it is imperative to ensure that every taxpayer dollar is used for its intended purpose—benefiting families, children and legitimate providers.

Throughout my discussions with parents and child care professionals across the Commonwealth, one message has been clear: These programs operate on tight budgets. Every misused dollar represents a lost opportunity to support a working family, improve provider compensation or enhance the quality of early education services.

During our research, Chairwoman Klunk and I identified that the most recent publicly available DHS Quarterly Licensing Report dates back to 2022. We have requested updated information from DHS and urged the department to prioritize transparency and timely reporting.

While I am hopeful an audit will reveal no significant misuse of funds, it is nonetheless the responsibility of public officials to verify that tax dollars are being managed effectively. Transparency and oversight are essential to maintaining public confidence in these vital programs.

The Protect Child Care Funding Act has been circulated to House members through a co-sponsorship memorandum and will be formally introduced in the near future. This legislation is not about assigning blame. It is about ensuring accountability, protecting taxpayer investments and preserving the integrity of programs that support Pennsylvania’s children, families and workforce.

Here are some additional news topics and reminders I would like to share.

Join Me at an Open House – My staff and I are looking forward to hosting open house events at my local offices! Gather with us to enjoy refreshments, discuss what is happening in Harrisburg and here in the district, and learn how my office can help you. The upcoming events include:

•   New Kensington Office - Thursday, Jan. 22, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., 356 Freeport St., Suite 100, in New Kensington.

•   Murrysville Office - Thursday, Jan. 29, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., 3091 Carson Ave., in Murrysville. Staff from the Westmoreland County Treasurer’s Office will be on-hand to help with dog license applications, which can be paid for via check. Office staff can assist those seeking to pay for an online dog license via credit card.

•   Washington Township/Export Office - Thursday, Feb.12, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.,105 Pfeffer Road, Suite 5, in Export.

Looking for Summer Work? - PennDOT is looking to hire college students to supplement its permanent workforce from May through August. 

The job typically entails seasonal maintenance work, crash system input and analysis, and maintenance and custodial services at roadside rest facilities. Many students also perform laboring and flagging duties in maintenance organizations and at highway worksites. 

To be eligible for consideration, candidates must be a Pennsylvania resident or currently enrolled full time or part time in a two-year degree, bachelor’s degree or advanced degree program at a Pennsylvania college or university. They also must be in good academic standing (as defined by a GPA of 2.0 or higher), and at least 18 years of age. 

The hourly rate is $17.38. Interested applicants should visit governmentjobs.com.

Carrer Assistance Available - Pennsylvania Alle-Kiski CareerLink will be at my New Kensington office, 356 Freeport St., Suite 100, in New Kensington, Tuesday, Jan.13 from 10 a.m. to noon. Their staff will be on hand to help with job searches, resumes and more. No appointment is necessary.



Representative Jill Cooper
55th Legislative District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
Media Contact: Jordan Frei
724.875.8450
jfrei@pahousegop.com