MS HB161

Creates a 12-member Child Care Advisory Council to advise the Department of Human Services Division of Early Childhood Care and Development on child care subsidy programs and the Child Care and Development Block Grant state plan.

Council membership includes 8 licensed child care providers participating in the subsidy program, 3 parents receiving subsidies, and 1 non-subsidized parent or consumer of child care services, with representation required from each Congressional District.

Council members serve 3-year terms with officers (chair, vice chair, secretary, assistant secretary, treasurer) serving 1-year terms; council must meet at least 4 times annually.

Grants council access to all Department records regarding child care programs and authorizes the council to advise on spending priorities, federal applications, and funding proposals to serve more eligible children.

Requires the council to submit annual reports beginning October 15, 2018 to the Governor and Legislature describing activities and recommending policy changes; takes effect July 1, 2017.