1. (a) There is a Maryland Child Care Credential Program.
2. (b) An individual may apply to the Office for a staff credential, including a child development associate credential, or an administrator credential under this subsection.

3. (c) If a person pursues, obtains, or already holds an Office-approved credential, the Office may award to the individual:

   1. (1) An achievement bonus;
   2. (2) A training reimbursement; or
   3. (3) A training voucher.

4. (d)

   1. (1) The Governor shall appropriate $4,000,000 for the program for fiscal year 2021.
   2. (2) For each of fiscal years 2022 through 2024, funding for the program shall increase by 10% over the prior fiscal year.
   3. (3) For fiscal year 2026, the Governor shall appropriate for the program an amount that is at least equal to the amount appropriated in fiscal year 2024.

Added by Acts 2021, c. 36, § 3, eff. March 14, 2021. Amended by Acts 2023, c. 49, § 2, eff. April 11, 2023; Acts 2024, c. 165, § 1, eff. July 1, 2024.