SC legislator exits child care industry to assist others

A South Carolina legislator has stepped away from the child care industry after many years. State Rep. Shannon Erickson, who has been a leader in the House, sold her child care centers in late 2024 but continues to support others in the field. She is now co-chair of a special committee focused on improving the state's child care system. Erickson sold her centers due to rising costs and difficulties for small providers. She noted that many smaller businesses are struggling to survive in a market increasingly dominated by larger companies. In the past, local child care centers provided valuable services, but many are now shutting down. To aid the child care sector, the South Carolina House has proposed a budget that includes $4 million for child care funding. This funding will support two important programs, including one that helps the state access additional federal money. There is a significant need for scholarships to help low-income families afford child care, especially as costs continue to rise. A pilot program called Tri-Share is being considered in South Carolina. It would split child care costs between parents, employers, and the state. This model has seen success in Michigan and aims to assist families who earn too much for federal aid but still struggle with high costs. The cost of child care in South Carolina is significant. For infants, the average cost was over $11,500 per year. Many families spend a large portion of their income on child care, particularly in areas with a higher cost of living. Despite efforts to improve the situation, many South Carolinians live in areas lacking sufficient child care options. Since the pandemic, the problem has worsened, prompting a federal response with relief funds that helped open new centers. However, that funding has dwindled, leaving uncertainty for the future. Erickson's departure from running her centers was not planned; it followed a request from a local hospital during the pandemic to provide child care for their employees' children. Eventually, she sold her centers to a larger company, ensuring her staff would receive better benefits and opportunities. Now, with her experience, Erickson is focused on advocating for the child care industry in South Carolina. She believes it is crucial to find ways to lower costs and increase support for both providers and families.