By: Miriam Edelman
DCNOW is pleased that D.C.’s budget (Bill Number B25-0785/Act Number A25-0501) provides the critical Pay Equity Fund (Fund) with $70 million in annual funding. As DCNOW President Rose Brunache said earlier this year, “This Fund has paid more than 80 million dollars to day-care teachers and helps with health benefits. If this fund were to be eliminated, there could be higher day-care prices and fewer teachers. Already, too many people are forced to make the heart-wrenching decision between childcare and other necessities. High-quality and affordable child-care greatly benefits children, their families, workplaces, and the nation’s capital.”
After D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser removed The Fund from her budget, the D.C. Council restored it. The Pay Equity Fund appeared in the budget that the D.C. Council unanimously passed on June 12, 2024, and transmitted to D.C.’s Mayor on July 1st. On July 15th, this bill was enacted without Mayor Bowser’s signature. In August 6, 2024, the budget was transmitted to Congress.
DCNOW respectfully requests that Congress keeps the D.C. budget intact. The Pay Equity Fund must remain. The Fund is vital for children, families, and teachers.
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