IL HB0177

Establishes a 5-year Universal Child Care Demonstration Program administered by the Department of Human Services to provide grants for developing and expanding high-quality, affordable child care services for children ages 0-6 regardless of family income.

Grants may be used to renovate or construct child care facilities in areas with demonstrated need, train and compensate child care providers and staff, and provide meal services to participating children.

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

Department must establish eligibility criteria for participating families, including parent cost-sharing and employment or school requirements, through administrative rules.

Department shall submit annual progress reports to the Governor and General Assembly by March 31st, and a final report within 6 months after the 5-year demonstration period concludes evaluating costs, impact, and quality outcomes.