Expansion of Kansas Law Will Provide Relief During Childcare Crisis

House Bill 2237 signed today by Governor Kelly expands childcare tax credits to individuals. This important legislation will provide relief to Kansas families impacted by the childcare crisis. The law previously incentivized businesses to provide childcare stipends by allowing them to claim up to 50% of expenses paid to childcare providers. The expansion now includes individuals and families, who can claim up to 30% of expenses starting this year. 

Current infant care in Kansas is nearly 30% of a women’s income, creating a significant financial burden for families. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, childcare is considered affordable if it costs no more than 7% of the family’s income. At this time, only 8% of Kansas families can afford childcare. 

The law, which was an innovative solution combining public and private resources to support Kansas families, is now even better.