AN ACT RELATING TO HUMAN SERVICES -- THE RHODE ISLAND WORKS PROGRAM

HB 5196 eliminates the sunset date for child care funding specifically for Rhode Island child care educators and staff. The bill extends permanent eligibility for this program, which previously would have expired on July 31, 2025. It directly affects licensed childcare workers who provide care in centers or family homes for at least 20 hours weekly, as well as staff offering early intervention services to infants and toddlers. The provision ensures these workers continue to receive child care assistance to support their own employment, removing a temporary expiration. This is a policy change that makes an existing benefit permanent for this specific workforce group.