AZ SB1487

Removes requirement for the Department of Economic Security to establish and maintain waiting lists for child care assistance, replacing it with income-based priority categories from 100% to 165% of federal poverty level.

Eliminates the provision that prioritized families on waiting lists by poverty level regardless of time spent waiting.

Appropriates an unspecified amount from the state general fund in fiscal year 2025-2026 to the Department of Economic Security to eliminate current child care assistance waiting lists and serve eligible families with incomes up to 165% of federal poverty level.

Maintains existing child care assistance eligibility criteria for families transitioning off cash assistance, those diverted from assistance, special circumstance families, and families in crisis situations.

Preserves existing requirements including 60-month cumulative assistance limits per child, 6-child family limits, and mandatory copayments for families receiving assistance.