H.R. 7498: After Hours Child Care Act

This bill is known as the After Hours Child Care Act. Its main objective is to create and improve child care programs for parents who work outside of standard daytime hours, which can include evening, night, or weekend shifts. The act aims to help these working parents better manage their responsibilities, allowing them to maintain their employment, pursue promotions, and build savings.

Key Provisions

The legislation introduces several important components:

1. Establishment of the Child Care and Development Innovation Fund

The bill amends the existing Child Care and Development Block Grant Act and establishes a new fund specifically aimed at enhancing child care access for parents with nontraditional work hours.

2. Grant Program

A pilot program will be created to award grants to qualified entities. Key aspects include:

• Purpose of Grants: Grants will fund initiatives such as expanding capacity for current child care programs, creating new onsite programs at workplaces, and assessing child care needs.
• Eligibility: Eligible entities include child care providers or partnerships involving child care providers and other supportive organizations.
• Grant Amounts: Grants will range from $25,000 to $500,000 and last for a maximum of five years.

3. Use of Funds

Organizations receiving grants can use the funds for various purposes, including:

• Hiring staff for child care programs
• Upgrading facilities and equipment
• Enhancing curriculum
• Meeting health and safety standards
• Training staff on safe practices

4. Reporting Requirements

The Secretary of Health and Human Services is tasked with preparing and submitting reports to Congress every two years. These reports will detail:

• The number of children receiving care under this initiative
• The impact on child care availability
• Data about the employment status of the parents served

5. Matching Funds

Grants will require the recipient to provide a non-federal matching contribution of 25% of the total project cost.

6. Reservation of Funds

Up to 0.25% of the funds set aside for child care can be reserved to implement this act annually from fiscal years 2027 through 2031.

Definitions

Key terms defined in the bill include:

• Child Care Program: Activities related to child care provided by eligible entities.
• Nontraditional Work Hours: Hours that fall outside the typical 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. schedule, including weekends or other unusual scheduling.

Relevant Companies

None found.