Biden’s preschool plan could spell doom for faith-based providers

There are many flaws in President Joe Biden’s Build Back Better plan for childcare and universal preschool. But one flaw that deserves particular attention is the detrimental impact the BBB could have on parents’ ability to choose faith-based providers.

The legislation ostensibly includes religious providers. The childcare language states, “Nothing in this section shall preclude the use of such certificates for sectarian [religious] childcare services if freely chosen by the parent.” The universal preschool language calls for states to ensure mixed-delivery options, which supporters point to as evidence that faith-based providers will be eligible.