Oklahoma Human Services withdraws proposed child care rule changes for more stakeholder input and budget planning

OKLAHOMA CITY (Sept. 25, 2024) – After careful consideration, Oklahoma Human Services is withdrawing its proposed emergency rules for child care to address budget concerns and to allow more time for input from stakeholders.

These rules were focused on updating the Quality Rating and Improvement System (QRIS or Stars program) to better align child care providers' Stars levels with licensing requirements and to adjust the eligibility criteria for the state’s child care subsidy program. The public hearing previously scheduled for September 30 will be rescheduled.

“One of Oklahoma Human Services’ goals is for families to have access to affordable, quality child care,” said Jeffrey Cartmell, the new director of Oklahoma Human Services. “Continuing the pandemic-era level of spending is unsustainable without significant impacts to other vital services that Oklahomans depend on every day. We have a fiscal responsibility to taxpayers to maximize both the federal and state dollars entrusted to our agency. While we explore modifications to the subsidies and Quality Rating and Improvement System, we will work to ensure minimal disruption to our Human Services partners and clients and find the best path forward for Oklahoma.”

Oklahoma Human Services is committed to working with stakeholders to find the best solutions for child care in the state. The agency will offer opportunities for child care providers, partners, and others to collaborate on potential changes to the Stars program and subsidy eligibility rules. Written comments may be sent via email to CHILDCARE.OCCS@okdhs.org.

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