AZ HB2239

Establishes the Child Care Grant Program administered by the Department of Economic Security to provide grants to eligible applicants serving families with child care needs in underserved communities, low-income areas, and for nonstandard hours, infants/toddlers, and children with disabilities.

Creates the Child Care Infrastructure Fund consisting of legislative appropriations, grants, and contributions, with monies continuously appropriated for program administration and infrastructure development.

Authorizes fund expenditures for planning, acquiring property, renovating facilities, construction costs, start-up expenses (licensing, insurance, accreditation), workforce development, and technical assistance to expand child care capacity.

Defines eligible applicants as existing child care facilities/providers, individuals interested in opening new facilities, or unlicensed caregivers seeking to become licensed providers in Arizona.

Permits the department to contract with qualified community partner organizations experienced in providing technical assistance or supporting child care provider expansion to help administer the grant program.