IA HF2221

Families receiving state child care assistance must have a parent, guardian, or custodian who is in approved training, seeking employment (limited to 30 days per year), employed at least 28-32 hours per week depending on the child's needs, hospitalized or ill, or caring for a child needing protective services.

Initial eligibility requires family gross monthly income not to exceed 160% of the federal poverty level for basic care or 200% for special needs care, capped at 85% of the state median gross monthly income.

The Department of Health and Human Services cannot modify reimbursement rates or financial eligibility requirements without prior enabling legislation passed on or after January 1, 2023.

Child care providers may elect biweekly or monthly billing, and the department must remit payment within 10 business days of receiving a bill or claim for services.

Children ages 13-15 may qualify for assistance through an exception-to-policy request if special family circumstances would place their safety and well-being at risk if left home alone.