NH Childcare Grant Blocked by Federal Rules | Concord News

New Hampshire childcare providers hit a major roadblock: federal rules forbid using TANF or Child Care and Development Fund dollars for their new workforce grant, despite the state’s urgent need to hire and retain staff. After lawmakers earmarked $15 million in TANF funds for sign-on bonuses and retention perks, federal agencies rejected the move, citing program intent. Over a year of negotiations yielded no workaround—past TANF funds can’t be repurposed, leftover childcare funds are already committed, and no waivers exist. State officials warn cutting other essential programs to fund the grant isn’t feasible. Though disappointed, advocates remain hopeful, praising the swift federal and state response while pushing for alternative solutions. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/89c5c99a4cc3317e