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Bill

A 1624

Prohibits child care providers from charging any fees for service on days when providers are unable to provide child care services due to contraction of, or exposure to, COVID-19.

2024-2025 Regular Session Introduced by Melinda Kane

New Jersey bill prohibits child care providers from charging families on days providers close due to COVID-19 contraction or exposure, shifting closure costs entirely to providers.

Introduced in the Assembly, Referred to Assembly Children, Families and Food Security Committee
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · A 1624

Legislative bill overview

Bill A 1624 prohibits child care providers in New Jersey from charging parents for days when the provider cannot offer services due to COVID-19 contraction or exposure. The bill essentially requires providers to absorb financial losses during pandemic-related closures rather than passing costs to families.

Why is this important

Child care is a major expense for families, and unexpected fees during service interruptions create financial hardship. Conversely, child care providers operate on tight margins, and uncompensated closure days can threaten business viability. This bill attempts to balance family affordability with provider sustainability during health emergencies.

Potential points of contention

  • Provider financial burden: Child care businesses have fixed costs (rent, utilities, staff wages) that continue during closures. Prohibiting fees could force providers to absorb substantial losses, potentially leading to closures or reduced services long-term.
  • Scope limitations: The bill only addresses COVID-19, leaving unclear whether other contagious illnesses (influenza, RSV, measles) would trigger similar protections or fees, creating inconsistent policy application.
  • Market impacts: Strict fee prohibitions may discourage providers from operating or deter new providers from entering the market, potentially worsening child care shortages in areas already facing supply constraints.
  • Implementation gaps: The bill doesn't clarify how providers would prove COVID-19 exposure, whether partial-day closures are covered, or if staffing shortages count as "exposure."

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

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