This bill amends the Code of West Virginia by adding a new section, 49-2-120a, which focuses on payment rates for childcare services. It mandates that the Bureau for Family Assistance adjust the base rate for each type of childcare annually, starting September 1, 2025, based on the Consumer Price Index for all urban consumers. Additionally, the bill requires the Bureau to develop a state plan that outlines how federal Child Care & Development Fund resources will be utilized to enhance the affordability, availability, and quality of childcare programs.

Furthermore, the Bureau for Family Assistance is tasked with studying the implementation of a performance-based contracting model aimed at improving the quality of childcare services. This study will explore how incentive payments to providers can enhance outcomes, such as kindergarten readiness for children in childcare centers. The Bureau is also required to report its findings to the Legislative Oversight Commission on Health and Human Resources Accountability by December 15, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 49-2-120a
Committee Substitute: 49-2-120a