As families throughout the state struggle to make ends meet due to high inflation and other economic pressures, Senate Republicans have advanced legislation that would support working parents by providing greater flexibility in scheduling childcare.

Most daycare centers operate from 8:00 AM to 5:30, presenting a significant problem for shift workers who often work overnight or early morning hours. Republican legislation that recently cleared the Illinois Senate would create a more flexible childcare system to meet the different needs of working parents.

Senate Bill 3207, sponsored by Senator Jil Tracy, authorizes daycare centers to operate for 24 hours and provide child care for up to 12 hours for parents employed in a position requiring regularly scheduled shifts. A 10-hour period must elapse between daycare visits.

Senate Bill 3207 received unanimous support when it passed out of the Senate on April 12. The legislation now advances to the House of Representatives for further consideration.