Bill > SF2760

This bill establishes the Rural Child Care Stabilization and Support Payments Program, designed to provide financial assistance to child care providers in small rural communities. The program will offer non-competitive payments to eligible child care programs, including family day care homes, child care centers, and Tribally licensed programs located in cities or towns with populations of 2,500 or fewer. To receive payments, programs must complete an application, submit enrollment data, and attest to being operational during the funding period. The payment amounts will be based on the number of full-time equivalent staff, with additional funding for programs serving low-income or underserved areas. Providers can use the funds for various purposes, such as paying rent, purchasing equipment, providing staff compensation increases, supporting professional development, and covering operational expenses. Programs must maintain detailed records of fund usage for six years and can be subject to penalties for non-compliance. Legal non-licensed child care providers can also apply for up to $500 in startup costs. The commissioner of children, youth, and families will administer the program and provide an annual report to legislative committees. The bill includes an appropriation of unspecified amounts from the general fund for fiscal years 2026 and 2027 to support the program.

Health and Social Services

https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=Senate&f=SF2760&ssn=0&y=2025