WHEREAS, Child Care Aware of America and other organizations nationwide are recognizing child care providers this week; and

WHEREAS, over half the children under the age of six nationwide are estimated to spend some time in a nonparental care arrangement on a weekly basis, which provides critical enrichment opportunities, nurtures development for children of all backgrounds, and is a vital building block of our state economy; and

WHEREAS, the COVID–19 pandemic has created tremendous hardship for child care providers and the families of Oklahoma who depend on them and child care providers have continued to meet the needs of families while risking their health and financial stability to remain open; and

WHEREAS, Oklahoma recognizes these hardships and has provided much-needed relief to providers to help sustain the viability of child care; and

WHEREAS, our future depends on the quality of the early childhood experiences provided to young children today and support for high-quality child care represents a worthy commitment to our children's future.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE 2ND SESSION OF THE 59TH OKLAHOMA LEGISLATURE:

THAT the Oklahoma House of Representatives declares May 27, 2024, through June 2, 2024, as Provider Appreciation Week in Oklahoma and urges all citizens to recognize child care providers for their important work.