This bill amends the state child care assistance program to expand eligibility for children of certain child care personnel. It establishes that a child is eligible for assistance if their parent, guardian, or custodian is employed at a child care facility or home, works a minimum of 32 hours per week in a child care position, and is included in the minimum child-to-staff ratio set by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). Additionally, the bill specifies that the parent, guardian, or custodian cannot provide care for their own child if they work at a child care home, although co-providers may qualify under certain conditions. It also allows directors and administrative staff to qualify for assistance if they meet the same staffing ratio requirements.

Furthermore, the bill mandates that individuals participating in the program must make copayments based on their household income and directs HHS to create rules for the implementation and administration of these changes. Notably, the bill prohibits HHS from applying waiting list requirements for those deemed eligible under the new provisions. This legislation aims to support child care workers by ensuring their children have access to state child care assistance.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 237A.13