(Alan Mbathi/IPB News)
The Indiana Chamber of Commerce recently published “Untapped Potential in IN,” a report on how childcare issues affect the state’s economy.
The report concluded that Indiana is losing more than $4 billion annually — including more than $1 billion in tax revenue — because of childcare issues.
The data came from a survey in March of 609 parents with a child under the age of 6. The United States Chamber of Commerce Foundation conducted the survey.
It found that 57 percent of parents of young children missed work or class at least once because of childcare issues in the three months studied.
It also found that 40 percent of parents experienced employment disruptions in the prior year because of childcare issues.
Parents in Indiana spend an average of $677 per month on childcare.
This week on Noon Edition, we will talk with representatives of Indiana’s Chamber and childcare professionals.
You can follow us on X @WFIUWTIUNews or join us on the air by calling 812-855-0811 or toll-free at 1-877-285-9348. You can also send questions for the show to news@indianapublicmedia.org.
You can also record your questions and send them in through email.
Guests
Jason Bearce, Indiana Chamber’s Vice President, Education and Workforce Development
Melissa Fry, Director of Applied Research and Education Center for IU Southeast
Christin Olson, IU director of Early Childhood Education Services
Jennifer Myers, Director of Monroe Smart Start