A crisis in Pennsylvania's childcare system will be the topic of a roundtable discussion for state lawmakers in Erie County Tuesday afternoon.

The crisis is impacting workers, childcare centers, and parents, and the ripple effect is also reportedly taking a toll on our economy.

At this discussion, childcare experts, lawmakers, funders, and a parent will review a report detailing the scope and impact of the childcare crisis in the commonwealth.

Low wages are being blamed for historic staffing shortages, classrooms closing, wait lists growing for working families, and a hit to the Pennsylvania economy of more than $6.5 billion each year.

This is according to recent research from ReadyNation and the Pennsylvania Early Learning Investment Commission.