Access to childcare is a women’s issue, a family issue and a workforce issue. When I found out I was pregnant with my second child 12 years ago, one of the first calls I made was to my daycare center to ensure they had a spot available when my son was born.

That experience is far from unique. Nearly 15 million children ages five and under in the United States may need care because their parents work. But as costs skyrocket, too many families are left without reliable, affordable options that enable them to raise their kids while earning a paycheck. 

Under President Trump’s leadership, Republicans have stepped up to make childcare more accessible and affordable. The “One Big Beautiful Bill” included critical provisions to help parents afford the childcare solution that works best for their families. It strengthens the Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit and the Employer-Provided Child Care Tax Credit, while also expanding Dependent Care Assistance Plans. Together, these reforms will make childcare more affordable, flexible and available to families in every corner of the country. 

The bill modernizes the Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit for the first time since 2001. While childcare costs have jumped more than 250 percent since then, the credit has remained stagnant — making it far less effective for today’s families. By permanently updating the tax credit, we’ll help parents keep more of their hard-earned income to pay for daycare, babysitters and before- and after-school programs.  

Our legislation also expands the Child Care Tax Credit — which also hasn’t been updated since 2001— to make it easier for businesses of all sizes to support their employees with childcare. Under the tax credit, employers can offer on-site childcare or partner with local providers, giving their teams dependable, convenient options while they work.  

In addition, the bill raises the cap on employer-sponsored Dependent Care Assistance Plans, allowing parents to set aside up to $7,500 pre-tax for childcare expenses. Combine that with a permanent increase to the Child Tax Credit to $2,200 per child, new Trump Savings Accounts to help families build financial security from birth, and a permanent paid leave tax credit, and we’re finally delivering the resources parents need to thrive. 

We’re not just talking about improving childcare access — as my Democrat colleagues did when they had total control in Washington — we’re delivering real solutions. With childcare for two kids now costing more than rent in all 50 states, this action was sorely needed, and President Trump’s leadership made it a reality.  

These policies may not make headline news, but they will make a difference for families across this country who deserve the opportunity to work, raise kids and achieve their goals.  

Strong families build a strong economy — and a stronger country. And Republicans, under President Trump, are proud to be the party of strong families.  

Ashley Hinson represents Iowa’s 2nd District in Congress.