LINCOLN, Neb. (KMTV) - Gov. Pete Ricketts recently announced an executive order to expand childcare options for working Nebraska families and to provide relief for childcare centers participating in the state’s Child Care Subsidy Program.
The order enables licensed childcare providers within the program to bill the state for days when a kid is absent from care. It also allows families participating in the subsidy to get in-home childcare when other options aren't available.
Ricketts said childcare is a critical need for working Nebraskans during the coronavirus pandemic.
Stephanie Beasley, Director of the Division of Children and Family Services, said in mid-April that 16 percent of licensed childcare programs in Nebraska had temporarily closed since the cornavirus pandemic began.
"This means that over 4,000 children whose families receive child care subsidy from the state may not have access to safe, high-quality care as their parents or guardians," Beasley said on April 16.
Guidance for childcare providers during the coronavirus pandemic can be viewed here: http://dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/Coronavirus.aspx
Ricketts' executive order in regards to childcare can be read below.