Increases child care subsidy rates to the 75th percentile of the 2023 market rate study, sets a statewide rate floor, and appropriates funds.

The bill increases child care subsidy rates to the 75th percentile of the 2023 Child Care Market Rate Study for three-, four-, and five-star-rated child care centers and homes, effective July 1, 2026. It mandates automatic increases upon subsequent market rate studies. The bill also sets a statewide rate floor for child care providers in counties with rates below the state rate, allowing county rates to be applied if they are higher and necessary to purchase child care for low-income children.

Increases child care subsidy rates to the 75th percentile of the 2023 market rate study, sets a statewide rate floor, and appropriates funds.

The bill increases child care subsidy rates to the 75th percentile of the 2023 Child Care Market Rate Study for three-, four-, and five-star-rated child care centers and homes, effective July 1, 2026. It mandates automatic increases upon subsequent market rate studies. The bill also sets a statewide rate floor for child care providers in counties with rates below the state rate, allowing county rates to be applied if they are higher and necessary to purchase child care for low-income children.