employer requirement; dependent care benefits

HB 2849 requires all Arizona employers to offer a dependent care assistance program meeting federal standards under 26 U.S. Code § 129. This law directly affects every employer in Arizona by mandating they provide this benefit to employees, which helps cover costs for childcare or elder care. The program must align with the federal tax-advantaged structure outlined in the referenced U.S. Code section. The requirement becomes effective January 1, 2027, giving employers time to implement the change.