In Alabama, we value family. We know that raising children is both one of life’s greatest callings and one of its biggest responsibilities. But for far too many, the cost of childcare has become overwhelming.
From daycare to summer camps, childcare costs have universally soared, placing serious strain on household budgets.
In fact, nearly 60% of Alabamians live in childcare deserts, and the average cost of infant care tops $7,800 a year. For many working parents, especially single moms, that is nearly a third of their income.
These expenses keep parents, especially mothers, out of the workforce and put unnecessary pressure on families trying to do everything right.
Thankfully, Alabama’s own U.S. Senator Katie Britt has been working to tackle this issue.
As Republicans draft their multi-trillion-dollar tax plan, Senator Britt has been advocating for the inclusion of her plan to expand the Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit, a tax provision that helps families offset the cost of childcare. Her bipartisan bill would double the current credit for families with more than one child—from $2,100 to $4,000—and, critically, make it partially refundable for low- and middle-income earners.
That means even families who do not have outstanding tax liabilities, which are often those working the hardest to make ends meet, would still see the benefit.
This kind of policy may not make headlines, but it makes a real difference. It helps families afford childcare without creating a new government program.
It supports parents who want to work and provide for their children. And it recognizes that raising kids in today’s economy is a team effort that our tax system should support, not make it harder.
President Trump and Congress are making history with decisive action on immigration and restoring law and order—now is the time to build on that legacy by strengthening the American family.
Including Senator Britt’s childcare credit alongside a broader expansion of the Child Tax Credit would reaffirm to Americans that the Republican Party is the pro-family, pro-parent party. It would make good on President Trump and Congressional Republicans’ promise to be the party that puts families first—and it is the kind of bold, pro-family leadership that Americans are calling for at this moment.
What is more, this proposal makes economic sense. Childcare challenges cost the U.S. economy over $120 billion every year in lost earnings, productivity, and revenue. When parents cannot find or afford care, they often have no choice but to cut back hours or leave the workforce entirely.
That hurts the broader economy—but more importantly, it hurts families. Senator Britt’s plan would help reverse that trend, giving families the breathing room they need to thrive and contribute.
There are always competing interests in Washington, and plenty of ideas vying for inclusion in a major tax bill. But this one deserves to make the cut. It is practical. It is affordable. And it directly addresses the day-to-day concerns of families here in Alabama and across the country. Tax credits like these are a no-brainer to include in any conservative, pro-family tax agenda.
I applaud Senator Katie Britt for her leadership on this issue. As one of the youngest members of the Senate—and a working mother herself—she understands firsthand what Alabama families are going through.
Now, we need Congress to follow her lead. As the White House and Republican lawmakers put the finishing touches on crafting their “one, big, beautiful bill,” they must modernize these family- centered tax credits. And I encourage Senator Britt to keep fighting for these provisions as the process moves forward.
Thank you, Senator Britt, for championing Alabama values in Washington. This is about more than numbers on a tax form—it is about helping parents raise the next generation with dignity, stability, and support. Let us get it done.
State Rep. Joe Lovvorn has served Lee County as a Republican member of the Alabama House of Representatives since 2016. He also serves as Chairman of the House Rules Committee.
