child care; waiting list; appropriation

This bill amends Arizona's child care assistance program to clarify eligibility and administration. It directly affects low-income families needing child care to work, attend job training, or support foster care, with priority given to those at or below 100% of the federal poverty level. Key provisions include setting income limits (up to 165% of federal poverty level, ending at 85% of state median income), allowing up to 24 months of assistance after leaving cash aid, and requiring the department to establish priority waiting lists based on income tiers. The bill also adds categories for families facing crises like domestic violence or homelessness, and mandates clear criteria for denying or terminating assistance.