Weiland says Michigan's childcare programs can only be part of the solution

Child care programs in Michigan, such as Tri-Share, are getting national recognition for their impact in lowering the cost of child care for American families. Programs such as Tri-Share reduce the costs of child care by splitting the bill between families, the government, and employers. While the success of Tri-Share is a step in the right direction, the Ford School's Christina Weiland argues that cost is only part of the problem. "It can be part of the state's plan, but can only be part of the plan. It's merely a drop in the bucket as far as what the needs are in affording child care," Weiland said of Tri-Share's impact on affordability.

Weiland urges that accessibility and quality of care are also large issues in American child care facilities that programs like Tri-Share don't cover. She stated that Tri-Share has "Clearly got some real advantages for actual families who are unable to afford child care. It's business-friendly, allowing them to attain and attract workers, but it does not push the envelope in making child care better or raising wages for staff or increasing access."

Amidst federal audits and investigations into Minnesota child care facilities, Weiland expressed concern for the program being implemented at the national level. Despite its success and wide support, Tri-Share may face political backlash.