Panel backs phased expansion of Delaware childcare subsidies to reduce benefits cliff

Representative Hiloski presented House Bill 3 87 as a family‑security and workforce bill designed to address the benefits cliff that forces many working parents to decline promotions or leave the workforce. He said infant care in Delaware averages about $15,607 a year and the bill phases eligibility from 200% to 275% of the federal poverty level over five years, caps co‑payments at 7% of income and includes annual reporting requirements and a 2032 sunset to return authority to the General Assembly.

Co‑sponsor Representative Ross Levin and multiple community organizations expressed support. Nicole Bridal, appearing for the YMCA of Delaware, described the program gap that forces families who 'earn too much to qualify but nowhere near enough to pay' to lose care; she told the committee the YMCA provides financial assistance to several thousand children each year and supports widening eligibility. John Wellens of the Boys & Girls Clubs said the bill would address the 'POC donut hole' many families experience and improve access to quality care.

Department of Health and Social Services staff said they are preparing a fiscal note but requested minor clarifications in the bill text to align step‑up dates with the state fiscal year rather than the federal fiscal year; sponsors agreed to incorporate technical fixes. The committee moved to release the bill to the floor and the chair said he would walk votes after the meeting to gather the required signatures for committee release.