This bill says the Department of State has the only authority to set rules for the Federal au pair cultural exchange program. It would stop a State or local government from creating or enforcing laws related to the Department of State’s au pair program. The bill also requires the Secretary of State to send a proposed rule to the Office of Management and Budget within 90 days after the bill becomes law. That proposed rule must: change the national formula for the stipend and educational stipend paid by host families in a way that reflects room and board and other program costs; add flexibility for military families, first responders, single parents, shift workers, and others with non‑traditional schedules; and promote the au pair’s immersion into family life as part of cultural exchange.
No publicly available information.
According to the bill text, supporters say the au pair program is an important public diplomacy tool and a critical source of affordable childcare. The bill’s findings say national uniformity and affordability are needed so working families can participate, and that the program serves military families, first responders, single parents, shift workers, and others with non‑traditional schedules. Proponents also emphasize the need for clarity about which rules apply to the program.
No publicly available information.