Pritzker takes first steps to creating new state agency for early childhood programs

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (NEXSTAR) — Illinois will soon have a new state agency. Governor Pritzker took the first official steps to create the department of early childhood.

The agency will cover a lot of ground. The new department is meant to be a “one stop shop” for parents trying to see all the services, opportunities, and the care options the state has to offer. Pritzker first pitched the idea during his budget address in February.
but on Tuesday, he signed the bill that officially puts these plans into action.

“I’ve been involved in this arena now for a quarter century, and I vowed that if I became governor, I would take my experience as an early childhood advocate into government and become a champion inside the system,” Pritzker said.

Pritzker was joined by fellow democrats and education experts to celebrate the first step.
He allocated 10 million dollars in this years budget to get it started.

“Let’s not forget who this is for the end of the day, this is for children. This is about the young people whether they’re my children, your children, grandchildren, godchildren, aunts, uncles, whoever,” Rep. Will Davis (D-East Hazel Crest) said. “Think about what we’re trying to do here. We’re just trying to create such a great space. A one stop shop for those who are in that space can come get their questions answered.”

The agency has a long road before it is fully operational.
Pritzker acknowledged that the plan is to fully fund and run it after another 2 years.

“It will mean better coordinated state funded programs, more equitably allocated resources less bureaucracy for providers, and greater access for Illinois families,” Pritzker said. “Many of you know that when it comes to getting big things done, I’m impatient. But even I know that this isn’t going to happen overnight.”

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