Bill > H5196

This bill eliminates the sunset provision on child care funding for certain professional groups, specifically child care educators, child care staff, and early intervention staff who work at least 20 hours per week in licensed child care centers and homes. The bill removes previous income limitations and expands eligibility by allowing these professionals to be considered a "protected population" under federal Child Care Development Funds guidelines, with eligibility determined on a case-by-case basis using federal affordability guidelines. Participants in this program will have no copayments and can choose their preferred child care center or home. The bill requires the department to collect applicant and participant data and submit an annual report to the governor and general assembly by November 1, detailing the estimated demand for state-funded child care for these eligible groups. By removing income restrictions and the previous time limitations, the bill aims to provide more comprehensive and stable child care support for early childhood and intervention education professionals, potentially helping to address workforce challenges in these critical sectors.

Budget and Finance

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