This bill aims to increase the maximum number of respite care service hours funded by the Department of Children and Families (DCF) for families with eligible children. Specifically, it allows these families to receive up to 90 hours of respite care services over a 90-day period, which can be provided by either an agency-hired or self-hired respite worker. The bill emphasizes the importance of respite care as a means to offer temporary, short-term care or supervision for children with functional impairments, thereby alleviating the daily stresses faced by their caregivers.

Additionally, the bill outlines definitions for key terms such as "respite care," "agency-hired respite worker," and "self-hired respite worker," clarifying the roles and responsibilities associated with these services. The Commissioner of Children and Families is tasked with utilizing available state and federal funds to implement these provisions and is also required to adopt necessary rules and regulations in accordance with the Administrative Procedure Act. The act is set to take effect immediately upon passage.