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 April 30, 2026. Overall Target Completion Date: 04/01/2026 Action Step Number Action Step Description Target Completion Date 1 Waiver for offering child care assistance through grants or contracts was submitted to OCC and approved November 22, 2024. 11/22/2024 2 Explore best options for utilizing grants or contracts to expand services to underserved populations (i.e., infants/toddlers, underserved geographic areas, children with special needs). 05/31/2025 3 Update Child Care Payment Program policies and procedures to include payments through grants or contracts. 09/30/2025 4 Implement providing grants or contracts for direct services to underserved populations (i.e., infants/toddlers, underserved geographic areas, children with special needs). 04/01/2026