HB 391 Summary

• Establishes a two-year infant and toddler child care worker subsidy pilot program administered by the Department of Human Services, requiring implementation within six months of the bill's effective date.

• Provides wage subsidies to ensure all eligible child care workers in licensed infant and toddler centers earn at least $16.00 per hour, funded through the child care grant program special fund.

• Limits program participation to lead caregivers, caregivers, and child care aides in licensed infant and toddler centers who are not employed by the Department of Education, public charter schools, federal Head Start programs, or private educational institutions.

• Requires applicants to be U.S. citizens or permanent residents, currently licensed or registered as child care providers, and to comply with all applicable federal and state laws and regulations.

• Mandates annual reports to the legislature in 2024 and 2025, with a final report by 2026; pilot program sunsets on June 30, 2026.