Senate Bill No. 351, known as the "Working Mothers' Support Act," aims to enhance the Child Care Assistance Program by allowing expectant mothers to apply for assistance prior to the birth of their child. This bill introduces a new section, R.S. 17:407.29.1, which mandates the Department of Education to develop a provisional eligibility process for applicants, subject to approval by the Senate and House committees on education. Additionally, the Department is authorized to promulgate necessary rules and regulations to implement this process effectively.

The bill also amends existing laws regarding the Louisiana Early Childhood Education Fund and the Advisory Council. It clarifies that the fund will be administered by the State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education (BESE) and that local entities must establish eligibility criteria for early childhood care slots, ensuring that only economically disadvantaged children qualify. The Advisory Council's role is also defined to provide guidance to BESE and the Department on early care and education programs, including the Child Care Assistance Program. Overall, the bill seeks to streamline access to child care assistance for expectant mothers and improve early childhood education resources.

Statutes affected:
SB351 Original: 17:30(D)(1), 17:51(H)(1)
SB351 Engrossed: 17:30(D)(1), 17:51(H)(1)
SB351 Reengrossed: 17:30(D)(1), 17:51(H)(1)