IN SB0084

Raises the income eligibility threshold for the federal Child Care and Development Fund (CCDF) voucher program from 135% to 150% of the federal poverty level, requiring the state to apply for a federal waiver by April 1, 2026

Mandates full funding for all eligible CCDF voucher applicants and prohibits placing eligible applicants on waiting lists, with provider reimbursement rates set at or above January 1, 2025 levels

Increases prekindergarten program income eligibility from 135% to 150% of the federal poverty level and removes the $6,800 cap on state funding per voucher

Establishes a minimum of 7,500 prekindergarten vouchers per state fiscal year and requires provider reimbursement rates at or above January 2025 levels

Appropriates funds from the state general fund for fiscal years 2026-2027 and 2027-2028 to implement both the CCDF and prekindergarten program changes, with an emergency declaration for immediate effect upon passage