More calls for childcare reform, tax breaks for West Virginia families

CHARLESTON, WV (WOWK) — What some leaders call a “childcare crisis” in West Virginia could be the subject of a special legislative session.

There is wide agreement in both political parties that West Virginia has a critical shortage of childcare.

Analysts say there are two main problems: Childcare is very expensive and out of reach to many families, and the rates at which childcare providers are reimbursed by the state is low and causes many providers to quit.

The goal for the legislature and governor is to address and fix both problems.

“When we come back into special session and we haven’t gotten that exactly worked out, but we need to address the childcare issue because West Virginia needs young families,” said Gov. Jim Justice, (R) West Virginia

“We have to go back to the reimbursement rates based on enrollment, not on attendance. And that is the problem we are hearing from childcare providers across the state. That’s why so many of them are unable to keep their doors open,” said Del. Mike Pushkin, (D) Kanawha & State Party Chair.

There is talk of giving parents tax breaks to help subsidize childcare. Another idea is to pay more in subsidies from the state to help keep daycares in business.

The target date for a special session is Aug. 25, but that still has not been finalized. Many lawmakers will be in town then for monthly committee meetings.

There will likely be another issue in that special session: Whether state residents will get another 5% cut in their personal income tax.

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