• Expands access to childcare assistance. 

S1374 raises income eligibility for the Idaho Child Care Program from 130% to 155% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines, allowing more working families to qualify for support. Many families currently earn slightly too much to qualify for assistance but still struggle to afford the high cost of licensed childcare.

• Supports workforce participation. 

Reliable childcare is essential for parents to remain in the workforce. When families lose childcare assistance, many are forced to leave licensed care, rely on unstable or unsafe arrangements, or reduce their work hours. Expanding eligibility helps working parents maintain stable employment.

• Strengthens and clarifies the program in law. 

The bill also codifies the Idaho Child Care Program in state statute, ensuring it has clear legal authority and long-term stability. This provides certainty for families, childcare providers, and state administrators.

• Helps childcare providers and local economies. 

Access to childcare assistance supports licensed childcare providers by helping families afford their services, which in turn strengthens local economies and workforce stability.

Bottom Line

SB 1374 is a practical, bipartisan step that helps working families afford childcare, supports Idaho’s workforce, and strengthens the legal foundation of an important program. For these reasons, the bill deserves support.