The Employers for Childcare Task Force (E4C) has announced a virtual press conference scheduled for June 4 to discuss the state of childcare policy in Texas following the conclusion of the 89th Legislative Session.
According to E4C, the event will take place from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. Central Time and will focus on recent legislative developments that impact childcare policy in Texas. Speakers are expected to highlight significant legislative outcomes and explain how these changes present new opportunities for employers to enhance childcare access across the state. The panel will feature Janie Burkett, co-CEO and owner of The Biscuit Bar; Kelsey Erickson Streufert, chief public affairs officer at the Texas Restaurant Association; Emily Williams Knight, president and CEO of the Texas Restaurant Association; Wendy Uptain, executive director of Early Matters; and Charles Miller, senior policy advisor at Texas 2036.
Media attendees will have an opportunity to engage with the speakers by asking questions about upcoming advocacy goals and how businesses can contribute to expanding access to affordable, quality childcare for working families. The event will be conducted via Zoom, with media encouraged to register in advance.
The Employers for Childcare Task Force is described as a nonpartisan coalition comprising Texas business leaders dedicated to supporting public policy solutions that improve access to affordable, high-quality childcare for working families. Launched by organizations including the Texas Restaurant Association, Early Matters Texas, the Texas Association of Business, and Texas 2036, E4C aims to recruit members, gather input, develop a legislative agenda, and advocate for policy changes through mid-2025.
The Texas Restaurant Association (TRA), representing over 58,000 businesses within the state’s foodservice sector employing approximately 1.5 million people, provides assistance with regulatory compliance, training, certifications, and operational resources. TRA connects restaurant professionals with suppliers and students across the industry while its foundation supports workforce development through scholarships and training programs.