The bill proposes the establishment of the Child Care Cred Program under section 5180.41 of the Revised Code, which aims to share the costs of child care among participating employees, their employers, and the Department of Children and Youth, contingent on available funds. The program's goals include helping employers attract and retain talent, assisting employees with child care expenses, and supporting child care providers. To participate, employees must reside in Ohio and be selected by their employers, while employers must also be located in the state. Child care providers must hold a valid license or certification. The bill outlines the application process, eligibility criteria, and the responsibilities of the department in administering the program.
Additionally, the bill includes an appropriation of $10 million from the General Revenue Fund for the Child Care Cred Program. It allows the Department of Children and Youth to adopt necessary rules for implementation and establishes that any fraudulent activity by employees or employers will result in permanent ineligibility for the program. The bill emphasizes the importance of maintaining eligibility conditions and outlines the administrative responsibilities of the department in coordinating child care cost sharing and payments to providers.