Child Care Affordability Commission - Establishment

SB 452 establishes the Child Care Affordability Commission to study child care affordability in Maryland. The commission, composed of 11 appointed members including state officials, child care providers, family representatives, and employer groups, will examine barriers to affordable, high-quality child care - such as funding gaps, supply shortages, and support for the Child Care Scholarship Program. It must submit an interim report by January 2026 and a final report by December 2026 to the legislature. The bill does not create new funding or laws but directs the commission to analyze policy options for improving access and affordability. The commission will expire on June 30, 2027.