DHS Extends Pause on Childcare Subsidies

Childcare Subsidy Pause Extended by DHS

The Oklahoma Department of Human Services is extending its freeze on childcare subsidies for school-age children, affecting new applications and renewals for families with kids ages 6 and older. The pause is in place while DHS reviews how the recent federal shutdown may impact funding and capacity.

COVID Add-On Eliminated

DHS also announced it will no longer provide the $5-per-day COVID-era add-on, a temporary assistance boost created during the pandemic.

Impact on Oklahoma Families

The childcare subsidy program supported an average of 23,000 Oklahoma families over the past year. DHS says this pause will not affect existing subsidies for infants, toddlers, or preschool-aged children.

Assessment Timeline Unknown

DHS has not set an end date for the review, saying the freeze will remain in place until the agency completes its full assessment of funding needs.

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