TRENTON, NJ – October 21, 2026 — Three New Jersey General Assembly committees will convene a joint legislative hearing on Thursday, October 22, 2026, to examine critical challenges facing New Jersey’s child care system, with a focus on affordability, accessibility, and long-term stability for working families.

The hearing will bring together the Assembly Aging and Human Services Committee, chaired by Assemblywoman Shanique Speight; the Assembly Education Committee, chaired by Assemblywoman Verlina Reynolds-Jackson; and the Assembly Commerce and Economic Development Committee, chaired by Assemblyman William B. Spearman.

As families across New Jersey continue to navigate the rising cost of living, access to affordable, reliable, and high-quality child care remains an essential issue affecting household financial stability, workforce participation, and early childhood development.

The joint hearing will provide an opportunity for lawmakers to receive testimony from invited guests and examine the challenges affecting parents, child care providers, and communities throughout the state.

The discussion will focus on strengthening New Jersey’s child care infrastructure, improving accessibility for families, supporting a sustainable child care system, and ensuring children have access to safe, nurturing environments that promote their development and future success.

Hearing Details

Date: Thursday, October 22, 2026
Time: 1:00 PM
Location: Committee Room 16, Fourth Floor, State House Annex, Trenton, New Jersey

The hearing underscores the Legislature’s commitment to addressing child care as both a family issue and a broader economic priority. Improving access to quality child care is essential to supporting working parents, strengthening local economies, and creating opportunities for New Jersey’s next generation.