The proposed bill establishes the Child Care Grant Program and the Child Care Infrastructure Fund, which will be administered by the Department of Economic Security (DES). The bill outlines that the program will provide financial assistance to eligible applicants for various child care services, including early learning and child care in underserved and low-income communities, care during nonstandard hours, and support for children with disabilities. The DES will have the authority to adopt necessary rules and procedures, assist grantees, and contract with qualified community partner organizations to help administer the program.

Additionally, the bill creates the Child Care Infrastructure Fund, which will consist of legislative appropriations, grants, and other contributions. The fund will be continuously appropriated and can be used for administrative costs, planning and designing child care infrastructure, acquiring property, and supporting child care provider operations. The bill also defines key terms such as "eligible applicant" and "qualified community partner organization," and includes legislative findings that highlight the need for increased investment in early learning and child care resources in Arizona.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 41-1971
House Engrossed Version: 41-1971