Legislation would give tax credits to companies that help workers afford childcare

MONTGOMERY, Ala. (AP) — Alabama lawmakers on Tuesday advanced legislation that would provide state tax breaks to businesses that help their employees afford childcare.

The House Ways and Means Education Committee approved the bill, which was backed by both advocacy groups for women and companies. The bill now moves to the full House for further debate and could be in line for a vote as soon as Thursday.

House Minority Leader Anthony Daniels, the bill’s sponsor, said the goal is to help struggling families to afford childcare and to help businesses that are struggling to find workers.

“As we focus on increasing the workforce participation rate, we know that women have had to make decisions on breaking even on childcare costs or staying at home with their children. It’s easier just to stay home because you are losing money basically paying for childcare,” Daniels said.