CHARLESTON, WV (LOOTPRESS) — A newly introduced bill in the West Virginia House would give counties the power to create and operate their own public daycare systems, funded by local levies, fees, or taxes if approved by voters.
House Bill 5363 authorizes county commissions to establish a County Daycare Authority to build and manage affordable daycare services for residents. Supporters say the measure is aimed at boosting workforce participation, supporting families, and expanding early childhood opportunities.
Under the proposal, counties could move forward in two ways: through a commission-led referendum or by citizen petition. If at least 10 percent of voters from the last gubernatorial election sign a petition, the county commission would be required to place the daycare proposal — along with a funding mechanism — on the ballot at the next general election.
The bill allows counties to fund daycare operations through a voter-approved levy, tax, or fee. However, if a county can afford to launch and run a daycare program without new taxes or fees, the commission could create the program without a referendum. Neighboring counties would also be permitted to partner together to form a joint daycare authority.
Before any public vote, county commissions would be required to develop a detailed plan outlining construction, operations, and projected costs, hold a public hearing, and publish notice for community input.
If voters approve the measure, the county would create a five-member daycare authority board appointed by the county commission. The board would oversee operations, hire staff, acquire property, accept grants, set income-based fee scales for families, and manage daycare facilities. Board membership would include a county representative, parents, a finance expert, and a child development or education specialist.
The bill has been referred to the House Health and Human Resources Committee and then Finance for further consideration. Lawmakers say the goal is to give counties a local option to expand childcare access and support working families.
