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HB 1771

Employee Child Care Assistance Pilot Program; established, report.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Bonita Anthony and 20 co-sponsors

Virginia establishes a child care assistance pilot program for state employees to improve workforce retention and affordability, though budget committee indefinitely postponed advancement.

Passed by indefinitely in Finance and Appropriations (15-Y 0-N)
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Bill Summary · HB 1771

Legislative bill overview

HB 1771 establishes a pilot program in Virginia to provide child care assistance to state employees, helping them access and afford quality child care services. The bill requires a fiscal impact statement and eventual reporting on the program's outcomes and effectiveness.

Why is this important

Child care costs represent a significant financial burden for working families, often consuming 10-20% of household income. By piloting employer-supported child care assistance, Virginia would test whether subsidies improve employee retention, reduce absenteeism, and support workforce stability—particularly important given widespread child care shortages affecting labor force participation.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost and funding: The bill passed the full House but was indefinitely postponed in Finance and Appropriations, suggesting budget concerns about ongoing program costs and sustainability without dedicated revenue sources
  • Scope and equity: Questions about which employees qualify, income thresholds, and whether assistance applies equally across state agencies or creates inconsistencies
  • Program design specifics: The bill's actual structure (subsidy amounts, provider partnerships, eligibility criteria) is not detailed in available summaries, leaving implementation details uncertain

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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