19th News | Maria Odom, executive director of Advocates for Children of New York, drew a connection between special education for preschool children and universal childcare, which Mamdani and New York Gov. Kathy Hochul launched in January.

“Child care can only truly be universal if every child has access to a program that meets their needs,” Odom said in a statement. “We thank Mayor Mamdani for making this important investment, which will help ensure more preschoolers with disabilities receive needed, legally required support. Access to high-quality specialized programs during these critical early years can have a lasting impact on children’s development while helping make New York City a more affordable and appealing place to raise a family.”