HB4217 - Universal Child Care Demonstration Program Act

• Department of Human Services shall establish and administer a 5-year statewide Universal Child Care Demonstration Program providing grants to eligible entities for developing and expanding high-quality, affordable child care services for children ages 0-6 regardless of family income.

• Grants may be used for renovating or constructing child care facilities in areas with demonstrated need, training and paying child care providers and staff, and providing meal services to participating children.

• Eligible grant recipients include licensed day care centers and homes, community-based organizations, and faith-based organizations, with priority given to entities with existing child care experience in Illinois.

• Department shall establish by rule the application requirements, eligibility criteria for grant applicants and families, parent cost sharing, and employment or school requirements for participation.

• Program shall be subject to appropriations but Department may accept private funding; Department must submit annual progress reports by March 31st and a final report within 6 months after the program ends evaluating achievement of program goals.