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 starting January 1, 2025, the Department of Human Services will provide childcare assistance to families or assistance units eligible for support. The bill specifies that effective 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 childcare assistance.

Additionally, the bill amends Section 40-6.2-1.1 regarding childcare state subsidies, establishing new tiered reimbursement rates for licensed childcare centers based on the quality rating system. Effective July 1, 2025, these rates will be implemented in a tiered manner, reflective of the quality rating the provider has achieved within the state's quality rating system. The maximum weekly reimbursement rates for different age groups 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 also introduces a differential bonus rate for infants under 18 months and mandates fair payment practices consistent with federal rules for the Child Care and Development Fund. Overall, the legislation aims to improve access to quality childcare for low-income families and enhance support for childcare providers.

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