The bill amends Section 40-5.2-20 of the General Laws in Chapter 40-5.2, known as "The Rhode Island Works Program," to expand childcare assistance eligibility for families. Effective January 1, 2025, the Department of Human Services will provide childcare assistance to families who meet the requirements of a protective services category as defined in 45 CFR 98.20 (a)(3)(ii), which includes vulnerable children, such as those receiving support through the Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF).

The bill removes the previous provisions that provided childcare assistance to families with incomes below one hundred eighty percent (180%) of the federal poverty level for a limited time and eliminates the cap on funding for families needing assistance to enroll in public higher education. The Department is tasked with maintaining the definition of the protective services category in rules and regulations to align with federal requirements. The act is set to take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
802: 40-5.2-20