The bill amends Section 40-5.2-20 of the Rhode Island Works Program to remove the requirement that families consent to and cooperate with the Department of Human Services in establishing paternity and enforcing child support and medical support orders as a condition of eligibility for childcare assistance. Instead, it allows the parent or caretaker relative of any family applying for childcare assistance to voluntarily access the state's office of child support services for assistance in establishing parentage and support orders, but this will not be a requirement to qualify for or access childcare assistance.

The act is designed to enhance childcare assistance for families in need, particularly those with incomes below 261% of the federal poverty level. It establishes a tiered approach to eligibility based on income levels, with different provisions for families below 180%, 200%, and 261% of the federal poverty level, especially for those seeking to enroll or maintain enrollment in Rhode Island public institutions of higher education. Additionally, the bill allows families to continue receiving assistance even if their income exceeds 261% but remains below 300%, provided they pay a portion of their childcare costs.

The act is set to take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
5197: 40-5.2-20