The "Best Practices: Enhance Early Education and Care Benefits" bill mandates the Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development (EOLWD) and the Department of Early Education and Care (EEC) to conduct a comprehensive study on early education and care benefits for employees. This study will identify employer best practices, explore incentives for employers to support early education and care, and examine state partnerships with the business community. The bill also requires a report on a pilot program aimed at establishing these initiatives in FY25, highlighting the significant impact of child care on workforce participation in Massachusetts, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Additionally, the bill introduces a pilot program focused on enhancing flexible and predictable scheduling in rigid workplace environments, such as manufacturing and retail. This program aims to support parent employees through partnerships with local child care centers and the construction of onsite child care facilities for low-wage employees. The Healey-Driscoll administration will provide monetary grants and research support to document findings and facilitate a Community of Practice for grantees. This initiative seeks to foster collaboration among various state agencies to engage employers effectively and ensure positive economic outcomes for the Commonwealth, ultimately yielding long-term benefits for the early education and child care sector.