As part of the People First initiative, the Charleston Metro Chamber is committed to improving economic mobility and the quality of life for everyone in our region. Essential to this effort is our Government Relations team’s focus on advancing legislation that aligns with our key priorities: attainable housing, education, transit and childcare.

By advocating for policies that address these critical areas, we aim to create a more equitable and prosperous Charleston region. We are optimistic and excited about the opportunity to collaborate with our region’s elected officials to make meaningful progress that benefits all who call Charleston home. Together, we are shaping the legacy for 2040.

Check out the legislative wins that have been achieved, focused on childcare.

• S.862Childcare Caretaker Requirements– This legislation expands the educational background caregivers may have and updates the health and safety training required of the childcare workforce. These changes will help ensure a quality childcare workforce is in place to meet the rising demands of parents in South Carolina.
• H.4832 Paid Family Leave Insurance– would allow insurance companies and employers to create their own voluntary insurance coverage options that fit their business needs, from type of policy to eligibility requirements, to duration of leave and percentage of salary paid on leave to who is responsible for the cost. The policy would function similarly to any other supplemental policy an employer offers, like dental, vision or short-term disability. This adds another tool in the toolkit as our small businesses compete to recruit and retain talent.
• $2.5M to the Department of Social Services for the Working Families Child Care Scholarships and Support.

Keep checking back for more updates on People First Affordable, High-Quality Childcare legislation.