AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 4; Title 9; Title 37 and Title 71, relative to funding child care services.
Impact
The legislation allows for the allocation of grants specifically designated for the establishment of new licensed child care agencies across Tennessee. It emphasizes that these funds may also be utilized for program administration, marketing efforts, and program evaluation, with a cap on administrative expenses not exceeding 5% of the total appropriated funds per fiscal year. Critically, any unspent balances at the end of a fiscal year will be carried forward and cannot be diverted to the general fund, which suggests a long-term commitment to bolstering child care infrastructure.
Summary
Senate Bill 1053, also known as the 'Workers Need Child Care Act', aims to enhance child care services funding in Tennessee. The bill proposes the establishment of a special account within the state general fund called the child care infrastructure fund. This fund will be used to support the alignment of child care services with workforce development needs, thereby addressing the dual goals of facilitating job growth while ensuring adequate child care availability for working parents. The Department of Economic and Community Development will oversee the administration of this fund.
Contention
While the bill received significant support, it did face some points of contention, particularly regarding the allocation of state resources towards child care services versus other pressing budgetary concerns. Some stakeholders argued that while child care is essential, the accompanying financial implications should be further scrutinized to ensure efficient use of taxpayer dollars. The bill was recommended for passage with amendments by the Senate State & Local Government Committee, showcasing a clear path forward but also recognizing the necessity of detailed considerations in the overall funding strategy.
AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 4; Title 7, Chapter 51, Part 10; Title 9; Title 37; Title 49; Title 67 and Title 71, relative to the funding of childcare services.
AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 4; Title 7, Chapter 51, Part 10; Title 9; Title 37; Title 49; Title 67 and Title 71, relative to the funding of childcare services.