The bill amends Section 40-5.2-20 of the General Laws in Chapter 40-5.2, titled "The Rhode Island Works Program," to enhance childcare assistance for families and specific childcare professionals. Key insertions include provisions for childcare assistance to families with incomes below 261% of the federal poverty level, particularly for those needing care to enroll or maintain enrollment in Rhode Island public institutions of higher education. The bill also establishes that families with incomes below 100% of the federal poverty level will receive free childcare, while those with incomes between 100% and 200% will pay a sliding fee not exceeding 7% of their income. Additionally, it introduces funding for eligible childcare educators and staff working at least 20 hours a week, as well as for early intervention staff working with infants and toddlers with developmental delays, with no copayments required for families deemed part of a "protected population."

The bill removes the sunset provision on funding for childcare for eligible educators and staff, eliminates the family income limit for this assistance, and mandates annual reporting of participant data to the governor and the general assembly by November 1. It also clarifies that the department will determine eligibility for childcare assistance based on federal affordability guidelines for the newly included "protected population." The act is set to take effect upon passage, aiming to provide more comprehensive support for working families and childcare professionals in Rhode Island.

Statutes affected:
100: 40-5.2-20