The bill revises the family income eligibility requirements for the Best Beginnings Child Care Scholarship Program in Montana. It amends Section 52-2-715 of the Montana Code Annotated by changing the qualifying income threshold from 185% of the federal poverty level to 85% of the state median income for each family size. Additionally, it maintains a maximum qualifying income level that aligns with the federal child care and development block grant.

Furthermore, the bill includes an appropriation of $17 million from the general fund to the Department of Public Health and Human Services for each year of the biennium starting July 1, 2025, specifically for the Best Beginnings Child Care Scholarship Program. The legislature also intends for this appropriation to be considered part of the ongoing base for future legislative sessions. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
LC Text: 52-2-715