The bill modifies the eligibility and participation requirements for the state child care assistance (CCA) program in Iowa. It removes various non-income-related eligibility criteria, streamlining the process for families seeking assistance. Specifically, the bill deletes previous requirements that included circumstances such as parental employment status, participation in training programs, and the need for protective services. Instead, it emphasizes that eligibility will be based solely on family income, which must not exceed specified thresholds related to the federal poverty level and state median income.

Additionally, the bill introduces new provisions regarding the administration of the CCA program, including the establishment of waiting lists based on a first-come, first-served basis and the requirement for the Department of Health and Human Services to amend its administrative rules to align with these changes. It also repeals a section of the code that previously outlined additional eligibility criteria. Overall, the bill aims to simplify access to child care assistance for families by focusing on income as the primary determinant for eligibility.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 237A.13, 239B.24