Bill > S2295

This bill provides comprehensive legislation aimed at improving child care and early learning services in the United States through multiple interconnected programs. The Child Care for Working Families Act establishes a Birth Through Five Child Care and Early Learning Program that would provide federal funding to help families access affordable, high-quality child care. Key provisions include creating an entitlement program for eligible children to receive child care services, establishing sliding-scale copayments based on family income (with families earning up to 85% of state median income paying no copayment), and requiring states to develop quality standards for child care providers. The bill also provides significant funding for child care providers to improve wages, working conditions, and service quality, with a focus on supporting providers in underserved communities. Additionally, the legislation includes provisions for universal preschool, expanded Head Start services, and increased compensation for early childhood educators. The bill aims to address systemic challenges in child care accessibility, affordability, and quality by providing substantial federal investment and creating comprehensive support structures for families, children, and child care providers across the United States.

Health and Social Services

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/2295/all-info