Substitute House Bill No. 5163 establishes a task force aimed at studying and improving the affordability of living for children, families, and young professionals in the state. The task force will focus on various aspects, including cash assistance programs, educational and employment training, child care costs, and systemic barriers that hinder affordability. It will analyze the effectiveness of existing methods and programs, assess the impact of inflation and regional cost differences, and identify funding sources for potential improvements. The task force will consist of members from various state departments, legislative representatives, and experts in relevant fields, with initial appointments required within thirty days of the bill's passage.
The task force is mandated to submit a preliminary report by June 1, 2027, and hold a public forum to gather feedback on its findings. A final report is due by June 1, 2028, after which the task force will be dissolved. The bill does not include any deletions from current law but introduces new provisions to facilitate the establishment and operation of the task force.