Oroho: Child Care Centers & Camp Operators Tell Senators They Have Detailed Plans to Operate Safely

Says Working Parents Need Clarity on Reopening of Child Care from Administration

After hearing directly from child care providers and camp operators about their plans to operate safely, Senator Steven Oroho said the Murphy Administration must produce a clear timeline for the reopening of child care centers and summer camps.

“Without access to child care and summer camps, it will be impossible for many parents to leave their homes to earn a living as their workplaces reopen,” said Oroho (R-24). “Thankfully, it’s clear that child care and camp operators have produced detailed plans that demonstrate their ability to keep children safe and healthy as their parent get back to work.”

The testimony was delivered to Oroho and the Senate’s Fiscal Recovery Strategists, which is taking testimony from experts in various industries to ensure that New Jersey is ready to reopen safely after months of lockdown.

The meeting follows a call from Senate Republicans last week for Governor Murphy to provide clarity on expanding access to child care.

Under Executive Order 110, which the governor signed on March 25th, child care centers may only operate on an emergency basis to serve the children of “essential workers,” including health care workers, first responders, and social workers.

“It is extremely concerning that the only response that parents, legislators, and child care providers have received from the governor is that guidance is ‘coming soon’ or some other vaguery,” added Oroho. “We need specifics and dates for parents to make plans to return to work. Overall, it’s clear that the arbitrary nature of his announcements isn’t helping anyone, and it’s certainly not guiding the efficient reopening of New Jersey.”