CO HB1237

Creates three programs administered by the Division of Housing to address Colorado's child care shortage and support facility development: a toolkit and technical assistance program, a planning grant program, and a capital grant program.

Establishes the Child Care Facility Development Cash Fund with an initial transfer of $250,000 on August 15, 2024, to support grants and program implementation.

Requires the Division of Housing to adopt policies and procedures by November 1, 2024, including criteria for evaluating applications and prioritizing projects that meet demonstrable child care needs in underserved areas.

Mandates matching funds from grant recipients: 50% for center-based facilities and 25% for home-based facilities, with grants requiring business plans addressing community needs, staff compensation, and financial sustainability.

All three programs sunset on July 1, 2028-2029, with required annual reports to legislative committees on grant distributions and program outcomes through January 2029.