MONTGOMERY, Ala. (AP) — Alabama lawmakers on Tuesday gave final approval to legislation to provide state tax breaks to businesses that help their employees afford childcare.
The Alabama Senate voted 31-0 for the bill that now goes to Gov. Kay Ivey for her signature. Supporters said that childcare costs are a barrier for many parents considering returning to the workforce. House Minority Leader Anthony Daniels said the goal is to help families afford childcare and to help businesses that are struggling to find workers.
“It gets workers back into the workforce,” said Republican Sen. Garlan Gudger of Cullman during the Senate debate.
The bill would set aside $15 million in tax credits that could be claimed by companies that provide childcare stipends, on-site day care or reserved spots at licensed facilities. The tax credit program would begin in 2025 and end on Dec. 31, 2027. After evaluating the cost and effectiveness of the program, lawmakers could choose to extend the tax credit.
Son on target as South Korea beat Thailand 3
Xi Story: China's Youth Stand at Forefront of Innovation
Tourism event brings 5,000 exhibitors to Shanghai
Xi Gives Important Instructions on Party Building and Organizational Work
Mother of Australian surfers killed in Mexico gives moving tribute to sons
China Hosts Forum on Global Human Rights Governance
Chinese sightseers flock to Tianshui as spicy hot pot goes viral
Big Ten women's basketball schedule brings USC, UCLA to conference's easternmost schools
NEV makers encouraged to speed up overseas development