The bill amends section 5104.54 of the Revised Code to establish the Fair Tri-Share Child Care Program Act, which modifies Ohio's child care cost-sharing program. The program will now share child care costs equally among employees, employers, and the state department, with each party contributing one-third of the total costs. This replaces the previous structure where employees and employers each contributed 40% and the department contributed 20%, which was subject to available funds. Additionally, the bill sets eligibility criteria for employees, employers, and child care providers, and allows the department to require participation in the step up to quality program for providers.

Furthermore, the bill stipulates that 25% of the program's funds will be allocated to support child care costs for employees working at small businesses, prioritizing those employed by businesses with fewer than 50 employees and working more than 35 hours per week. If there are not enough participants from small businesses, the department can use the funds for other participating employers. The bill also includes provisions for the department to adopt necessary rules for implementation and establishes that the new regulations will take effect on July 1, 2027.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 5104.54