As the 2024 legislative session advances, the Birmingham Business Alliance (BBA) announced the addition of two legislative priorities to its agenda: A focus on the expansion of Alabama’s port infrastructure and the enhancement of childcare tax credits.
According to BBA, in recognition of the role transportation and logistics play in economic growth, they fully support the expansion of the Port of Birmingham. The organization is urging state lawmakers to increase funding for all of Alabama’s inland ports through legislative action, as well as grants and appropriations.
BBA coined strategic investment as “vital” in the process of enhancing Alabama’s competitive edge in global commerce.
Additionally, the influential business alliance stated — true to its commitment to workforce development and accessibility — BBA intends to legislation that enhances childcare tax credits for families, providers and educators.
Such an initiative supports current workforce needs and addresses the projected requirement for 500,000 skilled workers in the next five years. By making childcare more accessible and affordable, working parents can contribute to the economy while raising the next generation of Alabamians, BBA says.
These priorities build upon the BBA’s existing legislative agenda and reflect its ongoing commitment to fostering a robust economic environment in the Greater Birmingham Region and across Alabama, according to the group, adding they greatly look forward to working with state leaders to advance these topics into law.
RELATED: Legislative leaders discuss ambitious workforce and economic development package
“We believe that when we support our workforce from the ground up, starting with accessible childcare, we lay the foundation for robust business growth,” said Jim Proctor, BBA’s Vice Chair of Public Policy and Senior Vice President, Legal and External Affairs at McWane, Inc.
“Caring for our workers’ needs translates directly into the capacity for businesses to expand and thrive. It’s this kind of forward-thinking investment that will propel Alabama.”
BBA’s full legislative agenda for 2024, including support and long-term priorities, is available to view online. To see the agenda and learn more about the BBA’s public policy efforts, visit www.
Grayson Everett is the state and political editor for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @Grayson270
Don’t miss out! Subscribe today to have Alabama’s leading headlines delivered to your inbox.