Bill > SB243

This bill aims to improve New Hampshire's child care scholarship program by introducing several key provisions. The bill requires the Department of Health and Human Services to adopt administrative rules that streamline data entry requirements for child care providers, eliminating unnecessary hourly attendance reporting. Starting in December 2025, providers will receive scholarship payments in advance or at the beginning of each payment period. The bill also establishes a 24-month presumptive eligibility pilot program, beginning January 1, 2026, which allows applicants meeting initial screening requirements to receive child care scholarship funds while their full application is being processed. During this period, which can last up to 60 days, providers and applicants will not be responsible for care costs if the applicant is ultimately deemed ineligible, except in cases of fraud. Additionally, the bill mandates a study of the child care scholarship application process by November 1, 2026, to identify and implement improvements that reduce unnecessary administrative burdens. The department is also required to train district office staff on these program changes. The findings section emphasizes the importance of child care for workforce participation, economic development, and child development, highlighting the bill's goal of making the scholarship program more accessible and efficient for New Hampshire families and providers.

Health and Social Services

https://gc.nh.gov/bill_status/legacy/bs2016/bill_docket.aspx?lsr=961&sy=2025&sortoption=&txtsessionyear=2025&txtbillnumber=SB243