This bill amends the Human Services Code to establish a new subarticle focused on Child-Care Center Assistance Grants. It mandates the creation of a competitive grant program aimed at nonprofit early childhood education organizations and public school districts to enhance child care services in rural counties. The bill specifies that eligible child-care centers must comply with existing licensing requirements and can receive grants if they are located in counties with a population density of fewer than 291 people per square mile and are determined to lack sufficient child care openings.

The grant funds can be utilized for various purposes, including land purchases, facility construction and renovation, and staff salary supplements for a period of two years. The bill also requires grant applicants to demonstrate a partnership with a local business that will contribute to child-care fees for its employees. Additionally, it provides definitions for key terms, such as "local business," to clarify the scope of the program. The act is set to take effect 60 days after its passage.

Statutes/Laws affected:
Printer's No. 2006 (Jun 24, 2025): P.L.31, No.21