NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — To combat the growing daycare needs in Tennessee, one lawmaker has proposed state departments could set up their own child care services.
The bill targets "child care deserts" which are areas where child care is limited or wait times make it difficult to find care.
State Senator Sara Kyle (D- Memphis) proposed the bill which would give permission to state departments to start their own programs.
"The lack of quality affordable child care is a real problem for many young parents," Kyle said. The senator said it would help young parents who wish to continue to further their career without the uncertainty of the lack of child care.
"I think the situation that you really have to look at is one of those parents are going to stay home," Kyle said. "Either the mother or the father. It stops their career advancements and it stops the quality of work for the state of Tennessee. I think in its small way this might help people in those situations."
Kyle also said she believes the legislation will free up space in daycares for families who aren't state employees.
