child care; assistance; eligibility

SB 1727 modifies Arizona’s child care assistance program to expand eligibility for low-income families needing support to work, attend school, or address crises. It allows assistance for families transitioning off cash aid, those with incomes up to 165% of the federal poverty level (FPL), and special circumstances like domestic violence or homelessness - prioritizing families at or below 100% FPL. Key provisions include extending support for up to 24 months after cash aid ends, waiving work requirements for education/training programs leading to jobs, and setting income limits (ceasing assistance when income exceeds 85% of state median income). The bill also establishes prioritization on waiting lists by income level and gives the department flexibility to adjust income thresholds within available funding.