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 enhance childcare assistance for families. It establishes that the Department of Human Services will provide childcare assistance to families or assistance units eligible, effective January 1, 2025. The bill specifies that from August 1, 2023, through July 31, 2028, the department shall report annually to the governor and the general assembly by November 1 regarding the status of educators and childcare staff.

Additionally, the bill amends Section 40-6.2-1.1 regarding reimbursement rates for licensed childcare centers and family childcare providers. It introduces a tiered reimbursement system based on the quality rating of the providers, with specific maximum reimbursement rates established for different age groups, effective July 1, 2025. The new rates are as follows:

- Infants: Tier 1 - $334, Tier 2 - $341, Tier 3 - $355, Tier 4 - $364, Tier 5 - $378
- Toddlers: Tier 1 - $278, Tier 2 - $284, Tier 3 - $296, Tier 4 - $303, Tier 5 - $315
- Preschoolers: Tier 1 - $236, Tier 2 - $247, Tier 3 - $255, Tier 4 - $263, Tier 5 - $273
- School Age: Tier 1 - $210, Tier 2 - $215, Tier 3 - $231, Tier 4 - $250, Tier 5 - $263

The bill aims to ensure that the maximum reimbursement rates meet or exceed federal equal access benchmarks and adopts fair payment practices consistent with federal rules for the Child Care and Development Fund.

Statutes affected:
1159: 40-5.2-20, 40-6.2-1.1