Senator Aird’s Statement on Passage of SB3 establishing the Employee Child Care Assistance Program

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Wednesday, February 25, 2026

Contact: Jameson Babb

Chief of Staff 
jbabb@lashrecseaird.com 
757-719-0287

Senator Aird’s Statement on Passage of SB3 establishing the
Employee Child Care Assistance Program 

RICHMOND, VA- Today, the Virginia General Assembly gave final passage to SB3, patroned by Senator Lashrecse Aird (D-Henrico), sending the legislation to the Governor’s desk for signature. The bill establishes the Employee Child Care Assistance Program to help working families afford child care by creating a state match for employer contributions.

Administered by the Virginia Early Childhood Foundation, the program incentivizes employer, including small businesses, to partner in supporting the child care costs of their employees

“As a working mom of two school-aged children, I understand just how heavy the weight of child care costs can be,” said Senator Aird. “Families across Virginia are doing everything right — working hard, building careers, raising children,  and yet child care expenses can feel like a second mortgage. For too many parents, especially moms, the math simply doesn’t work,” said Senator Lashrecse Aird. 

“This legislation recognizes a simple truth: when we support families, we strengthen our entire economy. SB3 creates a practical partnership between employers and the Commonwealth to help working parents stay in the workforce, advance in their careers, and provide stability for their children. It’s about dignity. It’s about opportunity. And it’s about making sure Virginia remains a place where families can thrive.” 

Senator Lashrecse Aird represents eight diverse localities driving her consistent approach of pragmatic governing – known as a champion on education issues, criminal justice reform, reproductive healthcare access, and economic development.  With a willingness to reach across the aisle and work bipartisan to get things done,  Senator Aird has a proven track record of legislative successes at the State Capitol. 

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