A new annual report found Delaware must do more to improve child well-being, as the state lost ground in education and health despite slight improvements in children’s economic well-being.

Delaware ranked 31st in this year’s Annie E. Casey Kids Count Data Book, a slight decline from last year.

Janice Barlow, director of Delaware Kids Count, said the 2025 federal megabill complicates policy progress as state lawmakers address child well-being.

“In addition to managing their own priorities, they’re going to be talking about how do we do this in this changing environment, and how do we preserve gains and how do we prevent policy regressions,” Barlow outlined.

Enrollment in Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program has declined by more than 1 million people since President Donald Trump took office. Other data show the decline could be as high as 2 million.

With a few more weeks left in the state legislative session, Barlow argued lawmakers must examine the data to see who is being affected by policy decisions and where other choices could do the most good for Delaware children. Advocates said state and federal lawmakers should use the data to guide decisions, including a bill under consideration to expand Delaware’s Child and Dependent Care Expense Tax Credit.

Leslie Boissiere, vice president of external affairs for the Annie E. Casey Foundation, said lawmakers must consider policies that support the whole child and families.

“Stable housing is incredibly important for children,” Bossiere emphasized. “Access to healthcare is another thing that's important. We want children to get the developmental and preventative treatment that they need, and we also want to know that if there's a health issue, they have the ability to see a medical professional.”

A First State Pre-K survey found 92% of Delaware employers surveyed said child care issues hurt their employees, while more than 87% of parents said finding child care is a challenge.

Bossiere noted Congress’ expansion of the federal child tax credit led to a historic low in child poverty, but poverty rose again after those credits expired.

Source: Public News Service