This bill amends existing laws regarding the child care assistance program in South Dakota, specifically updating sections 28-1-60 and 28-1-61. The Department of Social Services is tasked with establishing a child care assistance program to support families and enhance the quality of child care services. The amendments clarify that the Secretary of Social Services shall adopt rules for the administration of this program, which includes eligibility determination, payment amounts, licensing, and compliance monitoring, among other areas.
Additionally, a new section is introduced that mandates the Department of Social Services to determine payments for the child care assistance program based on at least the ninetieth percentile of the market rate for the applicable area, as identified in the most recent market rate survey. This applies to various child care programs and age groups, ensuring that the assistance provided aligns with current market conditions and supports families effectively.
Statutes affected: Introduced, 01/29/2025: 28-1-60, 28-1-61