Democrats want West Virginia Governor Justice to do more on childcare

CHARLESTON, WV (WOWK) — West Virginia Democrats are calling on Governor Jim Justice to do more for childcare in the Mountain State.

A special session of the legislature will take up that issue on Sept. 30. Democrats say what the governor is proposing is a good starting point, but it still needs more funding.

It’s estimated that 36,000 kids in West Virginia are in childcare and that there are about 1,200 childcare providers. Right now, the maximum federal tax credit is $454 per child. A proposed state tax credit would add another $225. But democrats say childcare averages from $150 to $200 a week per child. They, and many Republicans, want to see more funding to help families out.

“In West Virginia, we have actually decreased the amount the state has spent on childcare. In fiscal year 2015, that amount was, I want to say, about $16 or $18 million, and right now it’s $8 million. So, we’ve almost cut in half the amount the state has spent on childcare,” said Del. Kayla Young, (D) Kanawha.

Democrats are also concerned about the governor’s proposal to give all workers another 5% state income tax cut. The income tax has already been cut 25%, and some lawmakers are worried further cuts might jeopardize spending on certain state programs.

Again, the special session begins Monday, Sept. 30.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WOWK 13 News.