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HF 342

A bill for an act relating to state child care assistance for children of certain child care personnel.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Sean Bagniewski and 6 co-sponsors

HF 342 expands child care assistance eligibility to child care workers, easing their financial burden and promoting workforce stability in the child care sector.

Introduced, referred to Health and Human Services.
#childcare #children #publicassistance
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Bill Summary · HF 342

Summary of HF 342: State Child Care Assistance for Child Care Personnel

Bill Number: HF 342
Introduced On: February 12, 2025
Status: Introduced, referred to Health and Human Services
Classification: Bill
Subject: Child Care, Children, Public Assistance

Purpose and Intent

HF 342 aims to expand eligibility for the state child care assistance program to children of certain child care personnel. The bill recognizes the unique challenges faced by child care workers and seeks to provide them with financial support for child care services, thereby promoting workforce stability in the child care sector.

Key Provisions

The bill amends Section 237A.13 of the Code 2025 and introduces a new section, 237A.13A, which outlines specific eligibility criteria for child care assistance:

  1. Eligibility Criteria for Parents/Guardians:
    • The parent, guardian, or custodian must be employed at:
      • A licensed child care facility.
      • A registered child care home.
      • An unregistered child care home that has an agreement with the state for reimbursements.
    • The individual must work an average of 32 hours per week in a position primarily focused on providing direct child care and must be included in the minimum child-to-staff ratio established by the department.
    • If employed at a child care home or child development home, the individual cannot provide care for their own child.
    • Co-providers at child development homes may qualify if they meet all specified requirements.
    • The individual must not serve as a substitute or assistant at a child development home.
    • The department must evaluate and confirm the need for child care based on the individual's application.

Impact

This legislation is expected to benefit child care personnel by:
- Providing financial assistance for child care services, which can alleviate the burden on those working in the child care industry.
- Encouraging retention and stability in the child care workforce by making it easier for workers to access affordable child care for their own children.

Procedural Aspects

  • The bill was introduced on February 12, 2025, and has been referred to the Health and Human Services committee for further consideration.
  • The legislative process will involve discussions, potential amendments, and voting within the committee before it can proceed to the full legislative body.

Conclusion

HF 342 represents a significant step towards supporting child care workers by ensuring that they have access to necessary child care assistance. By addressing the financial challenges faced by those in the child care profession, the bill aims to enhance the overall quality and stability of child care services in the state.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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