FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Monday, August 17, 2026
Media Contact:
Jonah Anderson
jonah.anderson@delaware.gov
DOVER, Del. — Governor Matt Meyer today signed two bills that will make it easier for families who rely on Delaware’s Purchase of Care program to access summer camps and childcare, while simplifying requirements that have prevented summer camps from serving families who receive assistance. Purchase of Care is a state-funded program that Governor Meyer has expanded as a part of his affordability agenda. The program subsidizes the cost of licensed childcare for eligible families and allows parents to pay a reduced rate for care, with the state covering the difference, based on household income and family size.
Joined by Senator Trey Paradee, Representative Kerri Evelyn Harris, YMCA of Delaware leaders, and children attending summer camp at the Dover YMCA Outdoor Center, Governor Meyer signed Senate Bill 278 and Senate Bill 293. Together, the bills address barriers that have delayed enrollment for families receiving Purchase of Care assistance and limited the number of summer camps able to participate in the program.
“Summer camp is not a luxury; it’s reliable childcare that allows parents to work while giving kids a safe place to learn, grow, and thrive,” said Governor Matt Meyer. “These bills make that care more accessible and affordable for families across Delaware. By removing barriers to childcare, we’re creating more opportunities for our kids and giving Delaware families the economic security they deserve.”
“As a parent, I know summer camp is way more than just a place for kids to be while we’re at work. It’s enriching, it’s fun, and it’s often where some of their best summer memories happen. But it can also be really expensive, and for a lot of families, those costs simply put camp out of reach,” said House Majority Leader Kerri Evelyn Harris. “That’s why I was proud to work with Sen. Paradee to pass SB 278 and SB 293, and I’m excited to see how these new laws open up more opportunities for children from all backgrounds to experience summer camp.”
“For thousands of Delaware families, summer camp isn’t just about having fun, it’s childcare. At a time when the cost of living is impacting so many families in Delaware, we should be doing everything in our power to ensure that parents are able to go to work knowing their kids are in a safe place,” said Senator Trey Paradee, lead sponsor of SB 278 and SB 293. “Thank you to the Governor for signing these bills into law, as these policies will create equity and opportunities for working families throughout our State.”
“Access to quality childcare is essential for children, families and our communities,” said Jarrett Royster, President and CEO of the YMCA of Delaware. “We are proud to support these important changes that make it easier for families to access care when and where they need it. We are grateful to Governor Meyer and the Delaware General Assembly for recognizing the barriers families face and working to create a childcare system that provides greater opportunity for every child.”
Taylor Woolfe, a parent at the Dover YMCA who utilizes Purchase of Care, said:
“I am a single mom, which means I am on one income. Daycare, before-and-after care, and summer camp are basically rent payments at this point—everything is so expensive,” said Taylor Woolfe, whose daughter, Amina, attends summer camp at the Dover YMCA. “Finding childcare is hard, but finding good childcare is even harder. When I found out that the Dover YMCA Summer Camp could accept Purchase of Care, I took a leap of faith and enrolled her. She feels safe, she’s happy, and every day she comes home telling me about someone who danced with her, smiled with her, or played with her. To the people who make Purchase of Care possible, the best thing I can say is thank you.”
Senate Bill 278 — Addresses the timing of Purchase of Care authorizations for summer childcare. Previously, summer camps could begin enrollment before the Department of Health and Social Services completed Purchase of Care authorizations, leaving families who rely on assistance waiting for approval while available camp spaces filled. Under Senate Bill 278, DHSS can pre-authorize summer childcare providers at any time after Jan. 1, allowing camps that require Purchase of Care authorization for enrollment to begin accepting participating families earlier. The legislation also clarifies that family copayments are determined by household size and income and whether assistance is provided for full-day or half-day care.
Senate Bill 293 — Addresses licensing requirements that have limited the number of summer camps participating in Purchase of Care, particularly in Kent and Sussex counties. The legislation clarifies the definition of a youth camp and simplifies the process for camps seeking exemptions from certain licensing requirements. Under Senate Bill 293, summer camps that do not meet all current licensing requirements may still apply for an exemption if they have a valid permit from the Division of Public Health and meet the health and safety requirements necessary to receive Purchase of Care reimbursements. Outdoor camps must also have access to shelter or a building during inclement weather.
The changes are designed to allow more summer camps to serve families receiving Purchase of Care assistance without lowering health and safety standards.
Both bills were sponsored by Senator Paradee and Representative Harris and passed the General Assembly with broad bipartisan support. Both take effect immediately, with the Department of Education required to implement the updated licensing exemption provisions by Dec. 31, 2026.
The legislation follows collaboration between the Governor’s Office, the Legislature, the YMCA of Delaware, the Department of Education’s Office of Child Care Licensing, and other state partners to address barriers facing working families seeking summer care.
Photos from the event can be found here.
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