AZ SB1484

Amends Arizona Revised Statutes section 46-803 to eliminate the waiting list provision for child care assistance by removing the requirement that the department establish waiting lists and prioritize applicants based on income levels.

Appropriates $80,950,176 from the state general fund in fiscal year 2017-2018 to the Department of Economic Security for child care assistance costs to eliminate the current waiting list and serve eligible families.

Maintains eligibility for child care assistance for families with incomes up to 165 percent of the federal poverty level who are working, transitioning off cash assistance, or in special circumstance situations (domestic violence, homelessness, medical conditions, drug treatment, or court-ordered community restitution).

Preserves existing provisions for case review (no more than once annually), copayment requirements, cumulative month limits (60 months per child), and referrals to child support enforcement and workforce services.

Retains the department's authority to deny, reduce, or terminate assistance based on availability of alternative care, eligibility changes, failure to cooperate with requirements, and other specified circumstances.