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.
The Eurovision Song Contest is kicking off with pop and protests as the war in Gaza casts a shadow
New rules for Pregnant Workers Fairness Act include divisive accommodations for abortion
Red Sox LF Tyler O'Neill leaves game against Guardians after collision with teammate
Cambodia's famed Angkor attracts nearly 540,000 int'l tourists in first 9 months
ALEX BRUMMER: How grotesque of pro
Civil War viewers are left stunned by Jesse Plemons 'dead
Upgraded farmhouses winning Jizhou more visits
Camping picks up pace as holiday option
Hyderabad racks IPL record total of 287
Iris Law catches the eye in a semi
Online city tours entertain journalists home and abroad at Beijing 2022