FROM INDIANA PUBLIC BROADCASTING

A new report from the Indiana Chamber of Commerce highlights the significant impact of childcare issues on Hoosier families and the state’s economy. According to the report, 57% of Indiana parents with young children have missed work or school due to childcare-related challenges, while 40% have left the workforce in the past year as a direct result of these complications.

Maureen Weber, President and CEO of Early Learning Indiana, emphasized the importance of reliable childcare. “Access to high-quality, affordable early learning opportunities enables parents to work or pursue education that could increase their wage-earning potential,” Weber said.

The report estimates that Indiana loses over $4 billion annually due to the lack of affordable childcare, through lost tax revenue, absenteeism, and workforce turnover.