Childcare: state median income threshold.

Senator Arreguín's proposal to modify California's childcare assistance programs would align income eligibility requirements across the state's subsidized childcare services by raising the threshold for CalWORKs Stage 3 childcare. The measure adjusts the qualifying income limit from 70% to 85% of the state median income, matching the standard already in place for other childcare programs under the Child Care and Development Services Act.

The legislation maintains existing protocols for managing program enrollment, including the established order for disenrolling families when necessary. Under these procedures, families are removed from services based on income levels, length of enrollment, and specific needs, with protections remaining in place for children receiving protective services or at risk of abuse. The bill preserves current provisions allowing the Department of Social Services to adjust contract reimbursement rates to stay within appropriated funding levels.

The measure also codifies the administrative framework for Stage 3 childcare, continuing the transition of service delivery from county welfare departments to contracted childcare institutions. County welfare departments retain the ability to operate alternative payment programs for families referred through child protective services, while other families access services through community-based providers serving working households.