By Bob Katzen

The Senate 7-32, rejected an amendment that would require a study which would make recommendations on employer-supported early education and care benefits, to include possible creation of a tax credit for employers that provide these early education and care benefits to their employees.

Amendment supporters said this amendment does not create a tax credit but simply requires a study of the possibility of one. They said that all options should be looked into and put on the table in order to help support employers that provide childcare.
“The bill already includes a new competitive grant program to incentivize employers to invest in additional early education and care slots for their employees,” responded Sen. Jason Lewis who opposed the amendment. “Furthermore, a federal tax credit has been available to employers since 2001 and has proven ineffective in expanding access to affordable early education and care for workers.”

GOP Minority Leader Sen. Bruce Tarr (R-Gloucester), the sponsor of the amendment, did not respond to repeated requests by Beacon Hill Roll Call to comment on his amendment and its rejection.

(A “Yes” vote is for the amendment that would include the possibility of tax credits in the study. A “No” vote is against the amendment.)

Sen. Patricia Jehlen No