The bill H.F. No. 1916, introduced in the Minnesota House of Representatives, focuses on child care assistance program integrity and establishes new requirements for the Minnesota Department of Children, Youth, and Families. Key provisions include:

1. Program Integrity Measures:

   • Sets up accountability and fraud prevention measures for the Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) to ensure proper use of funds.
   • Mandates an electronic recordkeeping system for child care enrollment.

2. Data Classification & Reporting:

   • Classifies payment data, provider information, and child care video footage under existing Minnesota law.
   • Requires the commissioner to submit biennial reports on program effectiveness and finance management.

3. Duties of the Commissioner:

   • Outlines responsibilities regarding federal funding applications, contracts with public/private agencies, and childcare program oversight.
   • Advances coordination among child care, early learning, and K-12 education systems.
   • Implements fraud prevention and investigative measures in collaboration with the Department of Human Services.
   • Develops county-level reporting requirements and enforcement mechanisms for non-compliance.
   • Ensures child welfare programs align with broader disability and mental health services.

4. Funding & Financial Oversight:

   • Establishes fiscal controls, including penalties for counties that fail to comply with financial reporting deadlines.
   • Authorizes the commissioner to recover overpayments and implement financial sanctions for misuse of public assistance funds.

5. Administrative Reforms:

   • Encourages streamlined services for families accessing childcare and welfare programs.
   • Authorizes experimental projects to test more efficient administrative procedures.
   • Enhances interagency cooperation between state, local, and federal bodies to improve childcare and family services.

Bottom Line:

This bill aims to strengthen integrity, transparency, and efficiency in Minnesota's Child Care Assistance Program, ensuring taxpayer funds are used properly and that families receive the support they need.