Bill > H4394

This bill amends South Carolina law by requiring the Department of Social Services (DSS) and the Department of Employment and Workforce (DEW) to collaborate and offer workforce development childcare stipends for unemployed parents and caregivers with children under twelve years old. Specifically, these stipends would be available for use while a parent or caregiver is attending a job interview, with the goal of helping unemployed individuals more easily seek employment. The bill mandates that participating childcare centers be distributed throughout the state to ensure meaningful access for South Carolina residents, and these centers must have sufficient capacity to provide on-demand childcare services for eligible children. The proposed legislation would take effect immediately upon the Governor's approval, aiming to reduce barriers to employment by providing temporary childcare support during job search activities. This type of program recognizes the challenges that unemployed parents face in balancing job seeking with childcare responsibilities and seeks to provide a practical support mechanism to help them re-enter the workforce.

Budget and Finance

https://www.scstatehouse.gov/billsearch.php?billnumbers=4394&session=126&summary=B