AZ HB2237

Eliminates the requirement for the Department of Economic Security to establish and maintain waiting lists for child care assistance by removing the March 12, 2003 provision that prioritized applicants based on federal poverty level percentages.

Appropriates $80,500,000 from the state general fund in fiscal year 2014-2015 to the Department of Economic Security for child care assistance costs and to eliminate the current waiting list.

Ensures child care assistance is available to eligible families with incomes up to 165 percent of the federal poverty level without waiting list restrictions.

Retains all existing eligibility requirements and criteria for denying, reducing, or terminating child care assistance based on employment status, income changes, cooperation with department requirements, and other circumstances.

Maintains reporting requirements for the department to provide the joint legislative budget committee with semi-annual data on application totals and denials based on citizenship and legal residency status.