AZ HB2681

Establishes child care assistance eligibility for families with incomes at or below 400% of the federal poverty level at time of application, with assistance ceasing once income exceeds this threshold.

Authorizes the Department of Economic Security to reduce maximum income eligibility levels to manage within available appropriated funds, requiring notification to the joint legislative budget committee within 15 days of any changes.

Requires the department to establish criteria for denying, reducing, or terminating child care assistance based on availability of funds.

Mandates biannual reporting (December 31 and June 30) to the joint legislative budget committee on applications received, denials issued, families served, legislative districts served, and family income levels.

Appropriates an unspecified amount from the state general fund in fiscal year 2023-2024 to the Department of Economic Security for child care assistance.