SALT LAKE CITY (KUTV) — A newly passed law is paving the way for many state workers to have access to at-work childcare.
The effort was spearheaded by Rep. Ashlee Matthews (D-Kearns) who is also a parent and a state employee.
"Child care isn't just a family issue, it's an economic issue," she said.
Given that many state workers are now working from home or have hybrid schedules, many state buildings have empty areas or floors.
Matthews said those spaces could be used to set up daycare for children of state workers who still have to report to work in person.
The state will not pay for child care, but will rent some of that empty space to licensed and private daycares. The hope is that renting in state-owned buildings will be cheaper for the daycares; that could mean lower cost for parents who often struggle finding affordable daycare.
Each state department is responsible for determining if on-site child care is required and then seeking bids from private daycares.
Matthews said on-site daycare would ensure state workers have the support and peace of mind they need to do their jobs. It could be a valuable perk for current and prospective state workers.
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