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In a decisive move, Democratic lawmakers are pushing back against the adverse effects of Donald Trump’s immigration policies on the United States childcare system. Led by Senators Elizabeth Warren and Tammy Duckworth, along with Representative Mike Quigley, a coalition of 48 legislators has raised alarms over how these policies are contributing to an escalating crisis in childcare availability and affordability. The lawmakers have formally requested answers from the Department of Health and Human Services regarding the projected impacts of these immigration policies on the childcare workforce, which is significantly reliant on immigrant labour.
Immigrant Workforce at Risk
Approximately 20% of the childcare workforce in the United States comprises immigrants, with some regions reporting figures as high as 70%. The lawmakers warn that the current immigration policies could potentially reduce the childcare workforce by up to 15%. In a letter addressed to the Administration for Children and Families (ACF), they outlined how recent changes—including the termination of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and increased ICE raids in childcare settings—are driving providers out of the sector.
“Changes in immigration policy—such as the end of TPS, the removal of lawful immigration pathways, and aggressive enforcement actions—are driving childcare workers away, exacerbating shortages and inflating costs,” the letter stated.
Real-Life Consequences
The impact of these policies is not merely theoretical. The lawmakers cited specific cases, including a Wisconsin nanny and an asylum seeker without a criminal record, both of whom were detained during routine immigration checks. Additionally, immigrant teachers at a preschool in Washington, D.C., have lost their work authorisation and been forced to resign due to TPS terminations.
The letter also identified instances in Chicago and Minnesota, where ICE conducted raids at childcare facilities, leading to a decline in staff and further destabilising the already fragile childcare ecosystem. These incidents have not only affected the workers but also forced parents to reconsider their employment, leading to reduced work hours or complete withdrawal from the workforce.
Calls for Immediate Action
In light of these alarming developments, the lawmakers are demanding clarity on how the ACF is assessing the ramifications of Trump’s immigration agenda on the childcare industry. They seek to understand what measures are being implemented to avert further disruptions and to help mitigate escalating costs for families in need of childcare services.
This renewed scrutiny of immigration policies comes as some Democratic-led states are beginning to offer universal free childcare. New Mexico took the lead in September 2025 by becoming the first state in the nation to provide such services, prompting other regions, including New York and San Francisco, to follow suit with their own initiatives aimed at expanding access to affordable childcare.
Legislative Progress on Childcare Access
In parallel to these developments, Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez has joined forces with Senator Warren to endorse the Child Care for Every Community Act. This legislation aims to establish universal childcare across the United States, setting daily costs at $10 for half of all families, with a sliding scale based on income levels similar to those used in military childcare programmes.
The growing consensus among lawmakers highlights a significant shift in the discourse surrounding childcare, focusing on accessibility and affordability amid the challenges posed by immigration enforcement policies.
Why it Matters
The intersection of immigration policy and childcare availability is a pressing issue that affects families across the United States. As lawmakers push for accountability and reform, the implications of these immigration actions extend beyond individual families to the broader economy. Ensuring a stable and capable childcare workforce is critical for fostering a competitive workforce and supporting the holistic well-being of children. The outcomes of this legislative push could redefine childcare accessibility and affordability in America, shaping the future of family care and economic stability for years to come.
