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SB 359

Therapeutic Child Care Grant Program - Funding - Alterations

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Nancy King

Maryland SB 359 creates a state grant program funding therapeutic child care services for children with developmental or behavioral health needs, expanding access to specialized care.

Approved by the Governor - Chapter 239
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Bill Summary · SB 359

Legislative bill overview

SB 359 establishes a Therapeutic Child Care Grant Program in Maryland that provides funding to support child care services with therapeutic components for vulnerable children. The bill allocates state resources to expand access to specialized child care that addresses developmental, behavioral, or emotional needs alongside standard care services.

Why is this important

Therapeutic child care serves children with documented developmental delays, trauma histories, or behavioral health needs who require more intensive support than traditional child care. This funding mechanism makes specialized services more accessible to low- and moderate-income families who might otherwise be unable to afford these services, while also potentially reducing pressure on schools and health systems to provide these interventions.

Potential points of contention

  • Funding source and amount: The bill's budget impact and whether funding comes from new revenue, reallocation, or general funds—which affects other state priorities
  • Program eligibility criteria: Questions about how "therapeutic need" is defined and diagnosed, and whether clinical gatekeeping might exclude children who could benefit
  • Provider standards and workforce: Whether existing child care providers can meet therapeutic requirements or if specialized training/certification requirements create implementation barriers and increase service costs

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

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