Proposed Michigan legislation aims to boost tax credits, simplify childcare licensing
LANSING, Mich. — Michigan lawmakers are hoping to lower the cost of childcare with a new set of proposals.
Democratic State Senator Kristen McDonald Rivet testified that Michigan is in the middle of a care crisis for children.
She and six other Democrat members in the House and Senate said they want to cut out the red tape for providers, while at the same time putting more money in the hands of parents with young children.
The plan would give over $5,000 in tax credits per year for each child, from birth to three years, according to officials.
It would also adjust the reimbursement rate for providers for inflation each year, and simplify certain licensing rules.
One parent said more than any other factor, cost is the biggest burden they face in finding care for her kids.
"Without a degree of some kind, it's exceptionally hard to find a job that will pay over what the starting rate for childcare is," Sara Barry, whose child attends a Kalamazoo daycare, said. "A lot of us are existing right at that line. And just that little extra bump I think would help us."
Barry added the supplemental tax credit during the pandemic was a tremendous help, and that if the plan passes it could be another boost for working parents.
The bills are still working their way through the legislature since its introduction in April.