This bill amends Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 142E.17, subdivision 10, to establish an exemption for the absent days limit in child care assistance programs under certain circumstances. The current law restricts licensed child care providers from being reimbursed for more than 25 full-day absent days per child in a calendar year, with specific provisions for children with documented medical conditions and those from families with certain educational and support needs. The new language allows licensed child care providers to apply for an absent days limit exemption when an "extraordinary event" significantly impacts attendance or leads to closure, as determined by the commissioner.

Additionally, the bill clarifies definitions and processes related to absent days, including the criteria for what constitutes an extraordinary event, which may include natural disasters or epidemics. It also makes technical changes to the existing language, such as updating the numbering of subdivisions and ensuring that the definitions align with the new provisions. Overall, the bill aims to provide more flexibility for child care providers and families during unforeseen circumstances while maintaining the integrity of the child care assistance program.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 142E.17