Bill > HB862

This bill establishes the Child Care Affordability Commission, a diverse group of 24 members including state legislators, government officials, child care professionals, parents, and business representatives. The Commission will study and make recommendations about child care affordability in Maryland, focusing on identifying obstacles to creating a sustainable child care system, barriers to increasing child care supply, and potential measures to support working families. Specifically, the Commission will explore economic thresholds for child care costs, potential revenue streams for funding, and ways to support the existing Child Care Scholarship Program. The Commission will not receive compensation but can be reimbursed for expenses and may accept charitable contributions to hire external consultants. The Commission is required to submit an interim report by January 1, 2026, and a final report by December 1, 2026, to the General Assembly. The bill will take effect on July 1, 2025, and remain in effect for two years, automatically expiring on June 30, 2027, unless further action is taken by the General Assembly.

Budget and Finance

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB0862?ys=2025RS