This bill amends the Human Services Code of Pennsylvania to enhance the definitions and regulations surrounding subsidized child care. It introduces new definitions for "child care," "child-care center," "child-care employe," and "family child-care home," clarifying the parameters of child supervision and care services. The bill specifies that child care refers to the supervision of children under sixteen years old, excluding care provided during religious services or by social service organizations. Additionally, it outlines the criteria for child-care centers and family child-care homes, including the number of children that can be cared for and the relationship of the children to the care provider.

Furthermore, the bill modifies the copayment structure for subsidized child care, allowing parents or caretakers who are employed as child-care workers or direct support professionals to pay a copayment based on their income or employment status. Specifically, it establishes that these families will be eligible for subsidized child care regardless of their annual income, with a maximum copayment set at fifteen percent of their income. If they qualify based on income, their copayment will align with existing guidelines for other eligible families. The act is set to take effect in 60 days.

Statutes/Laws affected:
Printer's No. 1002 (Mar 17, 2025): P.L.31, No.21
Printer's No. 1002: P.L.31, No.21