H.R. 5363: Expanding Childcare in Rural America Act of 2025

This bill, known as the "Expanding Childcare in Rural America Act of 2025," aims to enhance the availability and quality of childcare services in rural and agricultural communities in the United States. Below are the main components of the bill:

Establishment of Initiative

The Secretary of Agriculture is tasked with creating an initiative specifically designed to address the challenges related to childcare in rural areas. This initiative will focus on improving the availability, quality, and affordability of childcare services over a span of several years, from fiscal years 2026 to 2030.

Definitions

In the context of this bill:

• Childcare: Refers to programs providing care and early education for children not yet in kindergarten or those in kindergarten. These programs must be operated by licensed, regulated, or registered childcare providers.
• Initiative: Specifically refers to the "Expanding Childcare in Rural America Initiative" established under this bill.
• Secretary: Refers to the Secretary of Agriculture.

Funding and Priorities

The bill authorizes the Secretary to provide loans and grants to qualified applicants focused on addressing childcare issues in rural communities. Priorities for funding will be given to initiatives aiming to:

• Improve the availability of childcare services.
• Enhance quality and reduce costs associated with childcare.

Eligible Programs

The programs eligible for funding under this initiative include:

• The essential community facilities loan and grant programs.
• The technical assistance and training grant program.
• The rural business development grant program.
• The business and industry direct and guaranteed loan program.
• The rural microentrepreneur assistance program.
• The rural innovation stronger economy (RISE) grant program.

Geographic Distribution

The initiative emphasizes the importance of geographical distribution, ensuring that communities benefit equitably. Priority will be given to farming-dependent counties, as identified by established data codes.

Use of Intermediaries

The Secretary can collaborate with various organizations, including:

• Childcare resource and referral organizations.
• Community development financial institutions.
• Nonprofit organizations.

These partners may provide technical or financial assistance and help secure private capital for childcare facilities and services.

Evaluation and Reporting

After implementing the initiative, the Secretary is required to conduct an evaluation within two years. This evaluation will assess:

• The types of projects funded.
• Benefiting communities.
• Participating organizations and entities.
• The partnerships formed during these projects.
• The economic and social impacts of the investments made.

A report detailing the findings and outcomes of the evaluation will be submitted to the relevant Senate and House committees within three years of the bill's enactment.

Relevant Companies

• None found