Prohibits child care providers from charging any fees for service on days when providers are unable to provide child care services due to contraction of, or exposure to, COVID-19.
Impact
If enacted, this legislation would reinforce the state's commitment to supporting families during public health emergencies by ensuring that parents are not penalized financially for circumstances beyond their control. Child care providers, which include those operating licensed facilities as well as family day care providers, would need to adapt their billing practices in compliance with this law. Providers who previously charged fees on such days would be mandated to reimburse parents retroactively from December 1, 2021.
Summary
Assembly Bill A2228 aims to address the financial responsibilities of child care providers during the COVID-19 pandemic. The bill explicitly prohibits child care providers from charging parents fees on days when they are unable to provide services due to their own contraction of or exposure to COVID-19. This measure is intended to alleviate some of the economic burden on families who depend on childcare services, especially during a time when closures and quarantines are prevalent due to the pandemic.
Contention
Notably, the bill does raise questions regarding the operational viability of child care providers. Some may argue that imposing such a fee prohibition could place additional financial strain on providers who have already been affected by the pandemic. There are concerns that without adequate support, it might lead to reduced services or even closures of child care facilities, thus impacting families' access to essential care. However, proponents of the legislation assert that it is a critical step towards protecting families during this unprecedented health crisis and promoting child welfare.
Prohibits child care providers from charging any fees for service on days when providers are unable to provide child care services due to contraction of, or exposure to, COVID-19.