Summary


Clients must be citizens or qualified aliens authorized to work in the U.S. to receive assistance. The review period has been changed to 12 months to streamline cases where there are no changes. This amendment provides for benefits during periods of temporary change. If a parent will be on a temporary break, this allows the parent to keep the child care provider and ensure continuity of care. The amendment does not allow a sponsor of a qualified alien to receive assistance for care of the alien or his or her children. The amendment prohibits a provider from keeping an overpayment and using it for non-eligible costs or other months. The amendment also requires providers to provide tax identification numbers for Form 1099; allows for minimal work requirements for parents who are medically unable to meet requirements; allows a parent to use child care assistance during a break in school schedule; clarifies when children with special needs will be approved for additional expenses; and allows the Department to request background checks when needed but not every five years.