This legislation aims to reinforce the federal nature of the au pair cultural exchange program by clarifying the Department of State's exclusive regulatory authority . It explicitly prohibits any State or political subdivision from enacting or enforcing laws related to the program, thereby ensuring national uniformity and consistency in its administration. The bill emphasizes that the au pair program serves important public diplomacy and foreign policy objectives, while also providing critical, affordable childcare for tens of thousands of American families. A key provision mandates the Secretary of State to submit a revised proposed rule within 90 days of the Act's enactment. This rule must establish a uniform national modification to the au pair stipend and educational stipend, designed to keep the program affordable for host families by accounting for provided room, board, and other programmatic costs. Additionally, the rule is required to enhance flexibility for host families with unique scheduling needs, such as military personnel, first responders, and single parents, and to promote the au pair's immersion into family life consistent with the program's cultural exchange purpose.
Referred to the House Committee on Foreign Affairs.
International Affairs
Modernize the Au Pair Program Act of 2025
USA119th CongressHR-4199| House
| Updated: 6/26/2025
This legislation aims to reinforce the federal nature of the au pair cultural exchange program by clarifying the Department of State's exclusive regulatory authority . It explicitly prohibits any State or political subdivision from enacting or enforcing laws related to the program, thereby ensuring national uniformity and consistency in its administration. The bill emphasizes that the au pair program serves important public diplomacy and foreign policy objectives, while also providing critical, affordable childcare for tens of thousands of American families. A key provision mandates the Secretary of State to submit a revised proposed rule within 90 days of the Act's enactment. This rule must establish a uniform national modification to the au pair stipend and educational stipend, designed to keep the program affordable for host families by accounting for provided room, board, and other programmatic costs. Additionally, the rule is required to enhance flexibility for host families with unique scheduling needs, such as military personnel, first responders, and single parents, and to promote the au pair's immersion into family life consistent with the program's cultural exchange purpose.