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Bill

HB 1321

Child Care Scholarship Program - Application Process and Copays - Alterations

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Jackie Addison and 12 co-sponsors

Maryland modifies child care scholarship application procedures and copayments to alter program accessibility and costs for eligible low-income families.

Approved by the Governor - Chapter 595
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Bill Summary · HB 1321

Legislative bill overview

HB 1321 modifies Maryland's Child Care Scholarship Program by altering the application process and copayment structures for eligible families. The bill streamlines administrative procedures and adjusts financial requirements for program participation, having passed third reading with overwhelming support (130-6).

Why is this important

Child care affordability directly impacts workforce participation, particularly for lower-income families and single parents. Changes to application processes and copay structures can either expand access to early childhood care or create new barriers, affecting both family economics and educational outcomes for young children.

Potential points of contention

  • Copayment level adjustments – Changes to copay amounts may benefit some families while potentially reducing program revenue or shifting costs, depending on whether copays increased or decreased
  • Application complexity trade-offs – Streamlined application processes may improve accessibility but could inadvertently reduce verification rigor or program oversight
  • Eligibility and income threshold implications – Modifications to application requirements might expand or restrict which families qualify, affecting program reach and budget projections

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

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