The proposed bill establishes a new program that provides monthly financial assistance to parents of children who are not enrolled in state-funded child care or pre-kindergarten programs. Specifically, the bill outlines that parents will receive $2,500 for each infant, $1,975 for each toddler, and $1,375 for each preschool-age child. To qualify for these payments, parents must submit an application that includes documentation of the child's birth or guardianship, the parents' relationship to the child, proof of in-state residency, and confirmation that the child is not enrolled in any state-funded programs. The department is required to make a determination on the application within sixty days and will notify parents if their application is denied.
Additionally, the bill stipulates that parents who provide fraudulent documentation will be ineligible for the payments. If multiple parents apply for the same child, the payment can be divided evenly, unless one parent has sole custody, in which case that parent will receive the full amount. The bill defines key terms such as "child," "department," and "parent," ensuring clarity in its implementation.