Bill > HB1321

This bill modifies the Child Care Scholarship Program, referred to as the "Program," by prohibiting enrollment freezes from affecting certain vulnerable populations, including those receiving Temporary Cash Assistance, TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families), or SSI (Supplemental Security Income), and homeless children, provided they meet other program criteria. If an enrollment freeze is implemented, the State Department of Education must create a waitlist, prioritizing applicants with the greatest financial need and those enrolling children under three years old. Additionally, the Department must identify, inform, and assist Program applicants whose children qualify for publicly funded prekindergarten programs. The bill also limits the copayment amounts that certain families must pay for child care, ensuring that families with incomes at or below 50% of the regional median income pay no copay, and setting specific percentage caps for families with higher incomes, with these copay limits taking effect on July 1, 2028.

Budget and Finance

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB1321?ys=2026RS