The bill amends Section 40-5.2-20 of the Rhode Island General Laws, which pertains to the Rhode Island Works Program, specifically regarding childcare assistance. The bill mandates that the department provide appropriate childcare to participants eligible for cash assistance who need childcare to meet work requirements. It also extends childcare assistance to low-income working families with incomes at or below 200% of the federal poverty level, as well as to those participating in job-readiness programs or enrolled in Rhode Island public institutions of higher education. The bill sets a resource limit for eligibility, stating that families with liquid resources exceeding $1 million are not eligible for childcare assistance. It also requires parents or caretakers to cooperate with the department in establishing paternity and enforcing child support orders, with certain exceptions.

Significant changes include the removal of a sunset clause, effectively making permanent the provision of funding for childcare for eligible childcare educators and staff who work at least 20 hours a week. The bill also expands this funding to include staff providing early intervention services to infants and toddlers with developmental delays and disabilities under Part C of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. The eligibility for this assistance will be determined on a case-by-case basis using federal affordability guidelines, and families deemed eligible will have no copayments. The bill requires annual reporting of participant data to the governor and general assembly by November 1. The act would take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
2344: 40-5.2-20