Cross-training staff, incorporating more independent providers, and expanding training in rural areas are solutions proposed by providers and researchers.
“When you have one kid, one spot, who's not being paid for essentially or not being paid for consistently, you can't pay your bills,” said one child care provider.
Spurred by a teacher who has seen the issues wrought by substance use among local teens, the proposal hinges on getting funding from the state’s pool of opioid settlement money.