As the 2024 legislative session progresses, the Birmingham Business Alliance (BBA) proudly announces the addition of two critical legislative priorities to its agenda. The focus is on the expansion of Alabama's port infrastructure and the enhancement of childcare tax credits.
Support for the Expansion of the Port of Birmingham: Acknowledging the crucial role transportation and logistics play in economic growth, BBA supports the expansion of the Port of Birmingham. It urges the State Legislature to significantly increase funding for all of Alabama's inland ports through legislative actions, grants and appropriations. This strategic investment is vital for enhancing the state's competitive edge in global commerce.
“Caring for our workers’ needs translates directly into the capacity for businesses to expand and thrive. It’s this kind of forward-thinking investment that will propel Alabama.”
Enhancement of Childcare Tax Credits: True to its commitment to workforce development and accessibility, BBA champions legislation that enhances childcare tax credits for families, providers and educators. This initiative supports current workforce needs and addresses the projected requirement for 500,000 skilled workers in the next five years. By making childcare more accessible and affordable, working parents can contribute to the economy while raising the next generation of Alabamians.
These priorities build upon the BBA's existing legislative agenda and reflect its ongoing commitment to fostering a robust economic environment in the Greater Birmingham Region and across Alabama. BBA looks forward to working with state legislators to advance these initiatives for the betterment of the region.
"We believe that when we support our workforce from the ground up, starting with accessible childcare, we lay the foundation for robust business growth," said Jim Proctor, BBA’s Vice Chair of Public Policy and Senior Vice President, Legal and External Affairs at McWane, Inc. "Caring for our workers' needs translates directly into the capacity for businesses to expand and thrive. It's this kind of forward-thinking investment that will propel Alabama."
BBA’s full legislative agenda for 2024, including support and long-term priorities, is available to view online. To see the agenda and learn more about the BBA’s public policy efforts, visit www.birminghambusinessalliance.com/public-policy.