Bill > S341

This bill aims to expand and support Family, Friend, and Neighbor (FFN) childcare in Massachusetts by establishing formal definitions and structures for this type of informal caregiving. The bill first defines FFN Care as child care provided by relatives or in the child's home that is exempt from standard licensing requirements. It mandates the Department of Early Education and Care to create a payment structure for FFN caregivers that ensures families can fully use childcare vouchers, pays caregivers an hourly rate at least equal to the state minimum wage, and requires public hearings before establishing or changing this payment structure. Additionally, the bill requires the department to convene a diverse state advisory committee within 60 days, comprising representatives from various organizations and FFN caregivers themselves. This committee will be tasked with holding public hearings and meetings to address multiple aspects of FFN care, including governance, resources, reimbursement processes, quality indicators, workforce development, and potential legislative improvements. The committee will serve for one year and must submit a comprehensive report to the commissioner detailing their findings and recommendations for supporting FFN caregivers in Massachusetts.

Education

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S341