Dems propose bill to have the state, businesses help fund the cost of child care

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) -- Relief could be on the way for Virginia families struggling to pay for child care.

That’s because Senator Lashrecse Aird (D-Henrico) wants to create a cost-sharing program where the state and businesses would put money in the pot to help make child care more affordable for Virginia families.

“Families have been complaining about two things -- accessibility [and] finding access to child care, and then when they do find it, being able to afford it,” Aird told 8News.

The proposed Employee Child Care Assistance Program is designed to incentivize businesses to pay some of the cost of their employees' child care by matching the amount of money businesses contribute with state funds.

“This legislation is a partnership between the Commonwealth as well as small businesses, and businesses generally, to help employees find greater access to child care,” Aird said.

 The remaining cost of child care will be made up by families, not to exceed more than 5% of their household income. 

Aird says the program will be good for families and businesses alike. 

“The greater issue is that when families and individuals can't show up for work, not only does that hurt our small businesses and our business community, but it also hurts Virginia’s economy,” Aird explained.

When asked about the bill, Republican Senate Minority Leader Ryan McDougle said his caucus is still reviewing Aird’s proposal.

“We are in favor of policies that do actually help child care,” McDougle said. “What we are concerned about is policies that say they’re helping us, and actually raise taxes.”

In a statement, the Virginia Chamber of Commerce says they support the bill, with Interim President Keith Martin saying, ““The Virginia Chamber of Commerce supports Sen. Lashrecse Aird’s SB3, the Employee Child Care Assistance Program. The lack of affordable childcare in Virginia remains a barrier to workforce participation, and employers want to be part of the solution. This legislation reflects feedback from employers across the Commonwealth through Blueprint Virginia 2035. Strengthening Virginia’s workforce requires prioritizing state investment in quality, affordable childcare and supporting employer-driven solutions, particularly for small businesses.”