MN SF1327

Beginning July 1, 2018, parents receiving child care assistance must choose providers participating in the Parent Aware quality rating and improvement system for children not yet attending kindergarten, unless granted a waiver by the commissioner of human services.

Effective July 1, 2020, providers caring for pre-kindergarten children must have at least a one-star rating in the Parent Aware quality rating and improvement system to be authorized for payment, with exceptions for unlicensed/license-exempt providers and qualifying hardship situations.

Commissioner of human services must develop a simple waiver process for provider choice requirements, with child care assistance eligibility determined retroactively from the date of application regardless of waiver approval timing.

Commissioner must monitor waiver usage and report to legislative committees with jurisdiction over child care and Parent Aware policy and finance.

Commissioner must consult with stakeholders and report recommendations to the legislature by February 15, 2015, on increasing Parent Aware accessibility for providers and families, including potential modifications to the bill's provisions.