AUGUSTA — Today, a new law introduced by Sen. Cameron Reny, D-Bristol, went into effect after being passed by the Legislature earlier this year. LD 1736, "An Act to Increase the Supply of Child Care Services Through the Use of Contracts,” will increase the availability of child care throughout Maine by allowing the use of contracts between state agencies and child care providers.

“Families in Maine should be able to make a living while knowing their children are safe and supported,” said Sen. Reny. “LD 1736 allows state contracts to keep child care centers open and accessible to the families that need them most.”  

LD 1736 will require the state’s Office of Child and Family Services to enter into direct contracts with child care providers to provide child care slots for children under 3 years of age, children with disabilities, children in underserved geographic areas, and other categories of children based on priorities identified by the office. Contracts provide guarantees of payment and demand for child care services, ensuring the stability that helps child care centers stay open, retain staff, and better serve Maine’s youngest residents and their families. 

As non-emergency legislation, LD 1736 took effect on Sept. 24, 90 days after the First Special Session of the 132nd Legislature adjourned.