As a parent with a child in daycare, I strongly support fast-tracking the repeal of the Fee Requirements for Processing Applications (8VAC20-830). Childcare providers are already facing tight budgets and staffing challenges, and additional fees create unnecessary barriers to opening, expanding, or maintaining programs. Removing these fees can help providers focus their limited resources on what matters most—safe, high-quality care for children— without passing the cost onto parents and without compromising a quality workforce. At a time when families urgently need more affordable and accessible childcare options, eliminating this requirement is a practical step that supports providers and helps ensure families like mine can continue to rely on stable, quality daycare.

I appreciate the Department’s efforts to simplify the fee structure under 8VAC20-821 and support the fast-track repeal of Chapter 830. These actions demonstrate responsiveness to our feedback and represent meaningful progress toward a more sustainable early childhood system.

Thank you for the opportunity to provide input and for your continued work to support children, families, and early childhood educators across Virginia.