The department shall allocate resources available under this chapter in a manner that promotes the following principles. [PL 1993, c. 158, §2 (NEW).] 1. Family self-sufficiency. A stable source of child care is a critical ingredient to economic self- sufficiency. Child care policies and programs must facilitate a smooth transition into the work force for parents and a rich and stable environment for children. [PL 1993, c. 158, §2 (NEW).] 2. Investment in children. Child care is a critical investment that affects a child's readiness to learn. High-quality child care programs recognize and implement good, early childhood practices, as articulated by Head Start, the National Association for the Education of Young Children and other early childhood organizations. [PL 1993, c. 158, §2 (NEW).] 3. Consumer orientation and education. Child care policies and programs must be responsive to the changing needs of families and educate families about available options, identifying quality programs and selecting appropriate care. [PL 1993, c. 158, §2 (NEW).] 4. Accessibility. High-quality child care must be available to any family seeking care regardless of where the family lives or the special needs of the child. A centralized system in local communities must be available to facilitate parents' access to child care. [PL 2011, c. 388, §6 (AMD).] 5. Affordability. High-quality child care must be available to families who receive child care subsidies available in the State on a sliding scale fee basis, with families contributing based on ability to pay. [PL 2011, c. 388, §7 (AMD).] 6. Diversity. It is the goal of the State to strive wherever possible to provide child care in an integrated setting, where children with various needs and of various income levels and cultures are cared for together. [PL 1993, c. 158, §2 (NEW).] 7. Efficient, coordinated administration. Child care programs must be coordinated to ensure the most effective use of federal and state funds. [PL 1993, c. 158, §2 (NEW).] 8. Support for infrastructure. State child care agencies and policies must support the orderly development of a high-quality child care system. [PL 1993, c. 158, §2 (NEW).]
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