The Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry, the state’s largest broad-based business association, recently released public policy recommendations aimed at addressing the child care access crisis.
“Growing our economy starts with removing barriers for people to enter, stay in, or re-enter the workforce—and access to high-quality, affordable child care is a critical part of that equation,” Luke Bernstein, chamber president and CEO, said. “We need a comprehensive plan to support this industry, including to tackle staffing shortages, reduce costs, and mitigate regulatory and administrative challenges.”
In Pennsylvania, there are 66 available workers for every 100 job openings, according to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. The state’s labor participation rate of 61.9 percent is below the national average.
There are currently 340,000 open jobs statewide, but child care availability and affordability keep some people from the work force.
“There’s no silver bullet solution, and funding proposals are only part of the discussion,” Bernstein said. “But by working with businesses, child care providers, and advocates, the PA Chamber is advancing reforms and recommendations that will strengthen our child care industry, thereby supporting working families across Pennsylvania.”
Several organizations advocate for reforms including the Pennsylvania Partnerships for Children and the Pennsylvania Early Learning Investment Commission.