Mississippi’s low labor force participation is a major issue, but one factor that’s often overlooked is how child care availability and cost affect parents’ ability to work.

A recent report highlights the complex challenges within our child care system—high costs for providers, steep prices for families, and limited availability of spots. As a former child care director, I’ve seen these issues firsthand.

In Meridian and Lauderdale County, affordable, reliable child care is essential for keeping parents in the workforce. Many families struggle to find child care options, which leads to job disruptions and turnover. Solving this issue is critical for supporting our local economy and ensuring a stable workforce.

Other southern states are addressing child care challenges with innovative solutions. Alabama’s HB 358 offers tax credits and grants for businesses to help fund child care. Louisiana’s Early Childhood Education Fund, which matches local investments, is supported by revenue from sports betting and CBD sales. These initiatives have expanded access to child care and increased workforce participation.

As the Mississippi Senate prepares for hearings on this issue, it’s important to think long-term. Quick fixes won’t solve the deeper challenges we face. We need dedicated investment in child care, just as we would for attracting a new business. Prioritizing child care will enable more parents to join the workforce and strengthen our state’s economy.

Jeffrey Leffler

Hattiesburg