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Primary Sponsor

Last Action

Re-ref Com On Appropriations/Base Budget2025-03-26

Vote Breakdown

No floor votes recorded.

Plain Language Summary

This bill requires the state to study using empty or underutilized state buildings for childcare facilities for state employees and establishes a pilot program to contract with private childcare providers to operate three childcare centers on state property. It also requires that future state building projects over $5 million with more than 250 employees include an onsite childcare or adult daycare center, unless it would delay the project by six months or increase costs by 10% or more.

Arguments in Favor

• •Supporters argue this bill helps state employees by providing affordable, accessible childcare, which reduces work absences and improves employee retention and productivity.
• •They contend that repurposing empty state buildings is cost-efficient use of existing resources, and the apprenticeship requirement creates training opportunities in early childhood education while addressing workforce shortages in that field.

Arguments Against

• •Opponents may question whether $5 million in state funding is the best use of limited taxpayer resources, especially if pilot enrollment is low or operating costs exceed projections.
• •They might argue that childcare is a private responsibility and worry about the state competing with private childcare providers, and express concerns about the quality and long-term viability of centers housed in repurposed buildings that may require expensive asbestos or lead remediation.