DE SB59

Directs the Department of Health and Social Services to pay a uniform statewide purchase of care rate to all child care providers for all age groups that is no less than the New Castle County rate as determined by the 2021 Delaware Local Child Care Market Rate Survey.

Applies the statewide rate to licensed child care providers serving children birth to 12 years of age in subsidized care programs that support families enabling caretakers to work, obtain training, or meet special needs.

Effective date is May 1 following enactment, with providers reimbursed for April 2023 under the new statewide rate criteria using existing program funds.

Addresses disparity where Kent County and Sussex County rates have been substantially lower than New Castle County rates for many years despite similar operational costs statewide.

References Department confirmation through Senate Resolution 34 that current budget funding is sufficient to cover the increased costs for fiscal year 2023.