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HB 84

Child care; DHS shall transfer to CCDF the first $40 Million of unspent TANF funds from prior FY to be used for child care vouchers.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Daryl Porter

Mississippi would redirect $40 million in unspent TANF funds annually to expand child care vouchers for low-income families.

Died In Committee
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Bill Summary · HB 84

Legislative bill overview

HB 84 would mandate the Mississippi Department of Human Services (DHS) to transfer $40 million in unspent Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) funds from the previous fiscal year to the Child Care and Development Fund (CCDF) program. These transferred funds would be dedicated specifically to child care vouchers, which help low-income families afford child care services.

Why is this important

Child care costs represent a significant barrier to employment for low-income parents, and voucher programs directly reduce this burden. By redirecting existing unspent federal funds rather than appropriating new money, this bill attempts to expand child care access without increasing state budget expenditures, potentially enabling more parents—particularly mothers—to enter or remain in the workforce.

Potential points of contention

  • TANF fund reallocation: TANF serves multiple purposes (cash assistance, work programs, emergency support); redirecting $40 million could reduce services in other critical areas or limit flexibility for emergencies
  • Sustainability questions: The bill transfers only "unspent" prior-year funds; if these fluctuate significantly, the child care voucher program may lack reliable, predictable funding
  • Implementation feasibility: DHS would need capacity to administer increased voucher programs; unclear whether adequate infrastructure exists or would require additional appropriations

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

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