equal-access-provider-options-for-parents

Reason(s) for non-compliance: • The Lead Agency does not provide grants or contracts for direct services for infants and toddlers, for children in underserved geographic areas, and for children with disabilities, as required by 98.30(b)(1). (Plan Questions 4.1.1c and 4.5.1i). Please note the Lead Agency has an approved waiver for this requirement through August 1, 2026. Overall Target Completion Date: 07/01/2026 Action Step Number Action Step Description Target Completion Date 1 Analyze Iowa Child Care Connect (C3) data to identify underserved geographic areas and areas where there is significant lack of services for infants and toddlers. 04/01/2025 2 Convene the following focus groups regarding barriers to child care for children with disabilities: Families that have children with disabilities 06/01/2025 Providers that serve children with disabilities Partner organizations that support children with disabilities 3 Follow state procurement processes to develop and release a Request for Proposal (RFP) and award contracts for direct services. 10/01/2025 4 Finalize and start contracts for direct services for infants and toddlers, children in underserved geographic areas and children with disabilities 07/01/2026