Income tax; authorize credits for certain child care expenses and for Pre-K providers for care of certain children.

SB 2854 creates two income tax credits in Mississippi: (1) a credit for taxpayers equal to their actual child care expenses paid to participating Pre-K providers (for children not yet in kindergarten), and (2) a $1,500 credit per average monthly child for Pre-K providers who participate in the state's voluntary Pre-K program under the Early Learning Collaborative Act. The bill directly affects Mississippi taxpayers with children in qualifying Pre-K programs and licensed Pre-K providers serving children aged four. Credits can be refunded if unused in the tax year they're claimed, and the law takes effect January 1, 2026. It does not provide direct funding but adjusts tax liability for eligible expenses and providers.