Missouri legislators are revisiting childcare tax credit legislation in the upcoming 2025 session to address the state’s ongoing childcare crisis. A University of Missouri study highlights the severity, revealing three children under six for every available childcare spot and inadequate access in 85% of counties, as reported by WGEM.
Republican State Rep. Brenda Shields reintroduced a bill that stalled last session. The proposal includes tax credits for employers contributing to employees’ childcare costs, providing in-house childcare, and childcare providers expanding facilities. Shields emphasized the economic benefits, stating, “Solving the childcare crisis could grow our economy by $1.35 billion.”
Independence Democrat Rep. Aaron Crossley also filed a similar bill, echoing bipartisan interest seen in the previous session. Shields noted that while the tax credits are critical, broader investments in early childhood development are essential for lasting change.
