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Bill

HB 1132

establish provisions for eligibility in the child care assistance program for certain child care employees.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Erin Healy and 1 co-sponsor

Failed bill to allow child care workers to access state child care assistance for their own children; vetoed by Governor with unsuccessful override attempt.

Delivered veto sustained to the Secretary of State H.J. 555
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Bill Summary · HB 1132

Legislative bill overview

HB 1132 would have expanded eligibility for South Dakota's child care assistance program to include child care employees themselves. The bill passed the legislature but was vetoed by the Governor, and the subsequent veto override attempt failed to achieve the required two-thirds majority in at least one chamber.

Why is this important

Child care workers often earn low wages and may struggle to afford quality child care for their own children, creating a potential workforce retention issue in an already tight labor market. Allowing these employees access to assistance could improve financial stability for workers in an essential but undercompensated sector while potentially reducing turnover.

Potential points of contention

  • Fiscal impact and program sustainability: Expanding eligibility increases program costs; opponents may argue resources should prioritize families with greater economic need or that the state lacks budgetary capacity
  • Scope of assistance: Questions about whether aid should cover full costs, partial subsidies, or be means-tested even for eligible employees, and whether it creates preferential treatment
  • Implementation concerns: Defining which child care employees qualify and administering eligibility verification could create administrative complexity and potential conflicts of interest

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

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