SF2759

Purpose

The bill establishes a program designed to help families in Minnesota afford child care by introducing the "Great Start Affordability Scholarships." The goal is to ensure families do not spend more than 7% of their annual income on early care and learning for children from birth until they enter kindergarten.

Main Provisions

• Scholarship Program Establishment: The program will help families afford high-quality early care and learning options. Scholarships will be available for families earning less than 150% of the state's median income.
• Child Eligibility: Children must be from birth to kindergarten and living in Minnesota to qualify, with some provisions for neighboring state residents who plan to attend a Minnesota school.
• Program Eligibility: Child care and early learning programs that can accept these scholarships must participate in the state’s quality rating system.
• Administration: The scholarships are to be managed by the commissioner with a system in place for scholarship applications and renewals. Scholarships are set to start by July 1, 2026.
• Funding: The scholarships will be financed by an account within the state's special revenue fund, with annual appropriations handled by the commissioner. Up to 7% of funds can be used for administrative costs.

Significant Changes to Existing Law

• Integration with Existing Programs: Families receiving current subsidies through different scholarships or child care assistance will transition to the "Great Start" program by July 1, 2028.
• Community Input: The program ensures that local communities, including families and early care professionals, can influence decisions regarding child care needs and preferences.

Relevant Terms

• Child care assistance
• Early learning scholarships
• Great Start Affordability Scholarships
• High-quality early care
• State median income
• Quality rating and improvement system