A lack of available and affordable child care options has proven costly for Missouri residents and the state in recent years. Legislation to address that challenge passed the House this week, with bipartisan support, in a 113-39 vote.
The Missouri Chamber of Commerce and Industry strongly supports HB 1488, sponsored by Rep. Brenda Shields (R-St. Joseph).
“In our most recent survey, 80% of business leaders across the state said they have struggled to recruit and retain workers – with the child care shortage being one of the primary reasons,” said Kara Corches, vice president of government affairs for the Missouri Chamber. “The state’s economy loses out on an estimated $1.35 billion a year, which includes $280 million annually in lost tax revenue, because of child care issues.”
The three elements of HB 1488 include:
The issue has broad public support. Nearly 90% of Missouri voters believe increasing access to child care will help more parents succeed in the workplace.
“We applaud Rep. Shields and House leadership for moving quickly on this business community priority,” Corches added. “We encourage the Senate to act swiftly and for the state to put these important provisions into law. This legislation has the dual impact of expanding the capacity of child care infrastructure and supporting businesses that want to help their employees.”
For more information, contact Kara Corches, vice president of governmental affairs, at kcorches@mochamber.com or call 573-634-3511.
