In Pennsylvania, inadequate child care options impose substantial and long-lasting consequences; their effects are felt by parents, businesses, and the commonwealth’s taxpayers. The top-line findings of a new study examining the economic impacts of problems in Pennsylvania’s child care system on working parents, employers, and taxpayers describe the consequences. The verdict: an annual economic cost of $6.65 billion in lost earnings, productivity, and revenue.
81 percent of employers indicated they have moderate or significant recruitment and retention issues due to child care, according to a report published in 2024 by the Pennsylvania Early Learning Investment Commission and the PA Chamber of Business and Industry.
64 percent of employers are unaware of or haven’t used tools to address employees’ child care needs.
Topline Findings: Economic Impact on PA Businesses & ECE Wage Study