SB3578 Summary

• Expands child care assistance eligibility under the Illinois Public Aid Code to include families whose children are enrolled in a Head Start program.

• Families with children in Head Start programs are deemed to be participating in a Department-approved education, training, or employment program and remain eligible for assistance without interruption as long as the child is enrolled in Head Start.

• Defines "Head Start program" as a federal program administered by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services providing comprehensive early childhood education, health, nutrition, and parent involvement services to low-income children and families.

• Requires the Department of Children and Family Services to report annually to the General Assembly beginning October 1, 2023, on the number of children receiving child care assistance via vouchers, including ages, types of care received, and duration of assistance.