Bill > H5281

This bill creates the Rhode Island Childcare Assistance Program, which aims to expand access to affordable, high-quality childcare for families in the state. The bill significantly reforms childcare eligibility and subsidy rates by allowing families with incomes up to 85% of the state median income to qualify for assistance, and allowing continued eligibility until families reach 100% of state median income. The legislation establishes new tiered payment rates for licensed childcare centers and family childcare homes that meet or exceed the federal "equal access" benchmark (75th percentile of market rates), with higher rates for providers achieving higher quality ratings. A notable feature is the introduction of an additional bonus rate for infant care (for children under 18 months) to help stabilize and expand access to quality infant care. The bill also makes child support enforcement voluntary for families seeking childcare assistance and ensures that families will not pay more than 7% of their income for childcare. The goal is to support workforce participation, economic security for parents, and early childhood development by making childcare more accessible and affordable. The provisions will take effect on July 1, 2025, giving the state time to implement the new program and prepare providers and families for the changes.

Budget and Finance

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