Senate OKs bills to let families secure summer childcare authorizations and expand camp licensing

The Senate passed two companion bills aimed at expanding working families’ access to summer childcare. Senator Pardee presented Senate substitute 1 for SB 278, which requires the Department of Health and Social Services to provide advance authorization for purchase-of-care after January 1 when authorizations are needed to reserve summer program spots, and clarifies copay calculations for half-day services. Senator Pardee said the measure does not expand eligibility but aligns authorizations with real-world registration timelines.

Senate Bill 293 (as amended) creates a licensure pathway for summer youth camps that already meet rigorous health and safety standards, including accreditation by the American Camp Association, so more camps — particularly in Kent and Sussex counties — could accept purchase-of-care funds. "We are not lowering standards; we are recognizing standards that already exist," the sponsor said.

The bills moved with bipartisan support; roll calls on the amendments and final passages showed 20 yes and 1 absent on both measures. Sponsors and supporters said the changes will open slots for children whose families rely on purchase-of-care, while amendment language settles eligibility and administrative details prior to implementation.

Next steps: The bills proceed for further legislative processing and implementation by DHSS and the Division of Public Health, which will align licensing rules and provider authorization frameworks.