WHEREAS, child care is an essential infrastructure for Delaware’s economy that supports today’s workforce; and
WHEREAS, there remain shortages in child care providers throughout the state; and
WHEREAS, quality early learning opportunities are critical to children’s development, school readiness, and success in life; and
WHEREAS, Kent County and Sussex County Purchase of Care rates have been substantially lower than New Castle County rates for many years; and
WHEREAS, many costs across Delaware are the same, including minimum wage, food, and supplies; and
WHEREAS, child care programs in at least 16 other states are paid based on a statewide rate and Delaware programs deserve the same support to serve children statewide; and
WHEREAS, the Department of Health and Social Services has reported, through Senate Resolution 34, that their current budget funding is sufficient to cover the increased cost for fiscal year 2023.
NOW, THEREFORE:
BE IT ENACTED BY THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF DELAWARE:
Section 1. The Department of Health and Social Services (“Department”) shall pay a uniform statewide purchase of care rate to all statewide child care providers, for all age groups of children, that is no less than the New Castle County rate as determined by the 2021 Delaware Local Child Care Market Rate Survey.
Section 2. Section 1 of this Act takes effect on May 1 following its enactment into law. The Department shall reimburse child care providers for the month of April 2023 based upon the criteria under Section 1 of this Act.
