The governor ceremonially signed a new law authored by State Representative Becky Cash on April 30 to increase access to childcare throughout Indiana.
The legislation, known as House Enrolled Act 1177, expands eligibility for the state’s employer childcare tax credit. Companies with up to 500 employees can now qualify if they offer an employer-run childcare facility or contract with a provider for employee care. The credit may be used for costs such as operating facilities, staff training, and higher wages.
“Ensuring families have access to safe, reliable childcare has been a top priority for me,” Cash said. “This new law expands opportunities for providers, increases access for working parents and helps set our youngest Hoosiers on a path to success from day one.”
Cash also supported Senate Enrolled Act 4 during the recent legislative session. This measure allows the state to add funds from the Financial Responsibility and Opportunity Growth Fund into the Child Care and Development Fund voucher program. As a result, enrollment could resume for an estimated 14,000 children receiving vouchers.
According to the Family and Social Services Administration (FSSA), regulated childcare facility capacity increased over the past year in Indiana. As of March, there was space available for 175,073 children—an increase of more than one thousand compared with March of last year.
Looking ahead, residents can learn more about state childcare resources or review other laws passed during this year’s legislative session through official state websites.
