North Dakota Senate Bill SB2190

North Dakota 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/10/23
• Refer: 1/10/23
• Report Pass: 2/1/23
• Refer: 2/2/23
• Report Pass: 2/21/23
• Engrossed: 2/22/23
• Refer: 2/22/23
• Report DNP: 4/17/23

Caption

The child care assistance program; and to provide a statement of legislative intent.

Impact

The impact of SB2190 on state laws is expected to enhance access to child care assistance for families, particularly those experiencing financial strain. By mandating a sliding fee schedule that adjusts child care costs based on income levels, the bill ensures that lower-income families are not overburdened by child care expenses. Additionally, the requirement for timely eligibility determinations aims to eliminate delays in access to crucial services, thus promoting welfare among vulnerable populations, especially children in legal custody.

Summary

Senate Bill 2190 aims to reform the child care assistance program as outlined in the North Dakota Century Code. This legislation proposes amendments to the eligibility application process, ensuring an efficient and streamlined method for families seeking assistance. It stipulates that decisions on application eligibility must be made within thirty days and mandates the establishment of rules that govern income requirements and the overall administration of the program. Supporting families in need of child care helps bolster community welfare and addresses the needs of working parents across the state.

Sentiment

While the sentiment surrounding this legislation appears focused on its potential to provide necessary support for families, the discussions may reflect differing opinions on how effectively it addresses underlying issues such as the adequacy of funding and resource allocation. Supporters advocate for the bill as a critical step toward improving child care services, while critics may question its execution, particularly regarding the state's ability to meet the funding requirements necessary to support the increased program demands.

Contention

Notable points of contention involve the financial implications of the proposed changes and the adequacy of the allocated budget for the child care assistance program. Critics may argue that although the bill aims to enhance support for families, the challenge lies in ensuring that there is sufficient state funding to cover such expansions and that the measures in place truly meet the needs of the communities they intend to serve.