SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 5536

As of February 20, 2001

Title:  An act relating to child care for children in homeless families.

Brief Description:  Determining the need for child care for children in homeless families.

Sponsors:  Senators Kohl‑Welles, Hargrove, Long, Costa, Thibaudeau and Kline.

Brief History:

Committee Activity:  Human Services & Corrections: 

SENATE COMMITTEE ON HUMAN SERVICES & CORRECTIONS

Staff:  Edith Rice (786‑7444)

Background:  Homeless families with young children experience significant difficulty in attaining economic independence.  Without access to childcare, families are less able to acquire access to housing and employment and provide for basic family needs.

Summary of Bill:  The Legislature intends to expand the availability of child care services to homeless families with children by requiring that the Department of Social and Health Services develop a plan for determining the need for child care services in homeless families.  The plan should provide for identification of the number of child care slots needed, cost estimates, be coordinated with other services provided to the homeless and does not create an entitlement.

Appropriation:  None.

Fiscal Note:  Requested on February 19, 2001.

Effective Date:  Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.