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HB 2614

Modifies provisions for child care assistance

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Stephanie Hein and 1 co-sponsor

Missouri HB 2614 would change how child care subsidies are allocated, including eligibility, funding, and administration for families and providers.

Referred: Emerging Issues(H)
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 2614

Overview

HB 2614 (Missouri, 2026) is a bill titled “Modifies provisions for child care assistance.” The bill has been referred to the Emerging Issues committee and has two co-sponsors: Stephanie Hein and Kem Smith. It progresses through typical House readings and committee consideration.

Purpose and Intent

  • The primary aim is to modify existing state provisions related to child care assistance programs.
  • The bill seeks to adjust how financial support, eligibility, or administration of child care assistance is provided to families and providers within Missouri.

Key Provisions and Changes (as described by the bill’s title and typical reform patterns)

Note: The exact text of provisions is not provided here. Based on the title and standard legislative practice, proposed changes may include:
- Redefining eligibility criteria for child care subsidies (e.g., income thresholds, work/education requirements, or family size considerations).
- Modifying payment structures or reimbursement rates to child care providers.
- Adjusting program funding levels or priorities (e.g., targeting services to particular populations such as low-income families, students, or those in temporary housing).
- Streamlining application processes, verification requirements, or reporting mandates to increase efficiency.
- Introducing new performance or accountability measures for program administration.
- Aligning Missouri’s child care assistance program with federal guidelines or funding opportunities.

Who Would Be Affected

  • Families and individuals seeking child care assistance (parents, guardians, caregivers) who meet eligibility criteria.
  • Licensed or registered child care providers and centers receiving subsidies or reimbursements.
  • Local agencies and state departments responsible for administering child care subsidies and related services.
  • Potentially, employers or educational institutions coordinating with child care supports to enable work or training participation.

Procedural and Timeline Aspects

  • Prefiled in late December 2025, indicating initial introduction before the 2026 session.
  • Read First Time in the House on January 7, 2026.
  • Read Second Time on January 8, 2026, signaling continued consideration.
  • Referred to Emerging Issues (H) on May 15, 2026, suggesting the bill is being examined for broader or evolving implications in child care policy.

Potential Implications

  • If enacted, changes could affect access to subsidies, the cost burden on families, and the viability of child care providers who rely on state funding.
  • Adjustments to eligibility or funding could influence labor market participation by parents seeking work or education.
  • Administrative reforms may impact processing times, accuracy of benefits, and program oversight.

Notes

  • Specific section-by-section language, dollar amounts, and exact policy changes are not included in the provided summary. For a precise understanding, the bill’s full text and fiscal notes should be consulted once available.

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

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