HONOLULU (KHON2) -- With rising childcare costs straining many families, a new bipartisan proposal in Congress could offer relief.
The proposed legislation seeks to modify existing tax credits to make childcare more affordable and introduce a new program to retain childcare workers.
The average annual salary for these workers is just over $30,000.
Sen. Tim Kaine, D-Va., warned of the potential collapse of the childcare industry, stating, "If this industry collapses—and I would say we're on the verge of collapse—it’s going to have a detrimental impact on our workforce and our economy."
Sen. Katie Britt, R-Ala., emphasized the need for reform, saying, "If entering the workforce, or re-emerging into it, is impeded by unaffordable childcare, then we as a nation have to figure that out and do better."
The senators believe they have sufficient support to pass the bill in the Senate.
However, its future in the House remains uncertain, with some Republicans arguing that the government cannot afford the proposed childcare funding.