NJ A4144

Establishes the Child Care Loan Program through the New Jersey Economic Development Authority to provide zero-interest loans for capital expenses to licensed child care centers and registered family day care homes.

Loan funds may only be used for renovation, expansion, or new construction of child care facilities—not for operating expenses—with the goal of increasing available child care slots statewide.

Loan recipients must repay within five years of disbursement and secure loans with collateral such as liens on business assets or personal guarantees, with equity contributions capped at 5% of the loan amount.

Creates the Child Care Loan Fund as a nonlapsing, revolving fund in the Department of Treasury, with $10 million appropriated from the General Fund for initial implementation.

Requires EDA, in coordination with the Departments of Children and Families and Human Services, to provide technical assistance including help with licensing, facility construction requirements, and staff recruitment.