Senator Lori Berman (D- Boynton Beach) and Representative Kelly Skidmore (D- Boca Raton) have filed legislation (HB 687/SB 1160) to allow state and local candidates the ability to use campaign funds to pay for childcare expenses directly related to campaign activities.
In 2018, the Federal Elections Commission approved federal candidates’ option to spend campaign funds on childcare through a unanimous, bipartisan vote, however, this ruling does not apply to candidates running for state and local office, where the underrepresentation of parents is often more marked. To date, 29 states have approved the use of campaign funds for childcare to help address the issue.
Recent reports show that less than 7% of members of Congress are mothers with minor children and 24.2% are fathers of minor children. Politics of Parenthood reports that while women make up a small percentage of state legislators nationwide, the gap is even wider for mothers of children under 18 years old, as they make-up only 5.28% of state legislators. Though there is no data on the number of fathers of young children in the state legislatures, there is no doubt that they too are underrepresented. (HB 687/SB 1160) will help increase representation for parents of young children, regardless of the parent’s gender.
“Parents of young children have an important perspective on education, healthcare, the economy, and housing costs. The access to and cost of appropriate childcare is a structural barrier that keeps talented candidates from running for elected office. This bill will eliminate the hardship that may be hindering good candidates from participating in the political process,” stated Representative Skidmore.
“This bill seeks to create a level playing field by eliminating the burden of childcare expenses and recognizes the importance of supporting good qualified candidates throughout our state and local communities that are parents. This legislation is not only an investment in the future of our children, but also in the ideals of equal opportunity and representation for all. This legislation breaks down the barriers that limit the voices of working parents and create a more inclusive and equitable political landscape for generations to come,” stated Senator Berman.
“Vote Mama Foundation envisions a future in which no candidate will have to consider the cost of childcare when weighing their decision to run for office. With the introduction of (HB 687/SB 1160), we are one step closer to making that vision a reality. We applaud Sen. Lori Berman and Rep. Kelly Skidmore for spearheading this vital legislation. By removing this financial barrier, we can ensure more people who personally understand the realities Florida families face can run for office. With this simple change, Florida has the opportunity to empower parents and ensure that they are truly represented.” — Vote Mama Foundation
