Bill > SB712

This bill expands the Preschool Open Doors program by modifying several key aspects of child care assistance in Hawaii. The bill broadens the age range of children served from three-and-four-year-olds to two-through-five-year-olds until kindergarten entry, and removes the previous priority system for program enrollment. It also establishes new eligibility criteria for child care programs, allowing parents to choose from licensed group child care centers, licensed group child care homes, registered family child care centers, and exempt center-based providers. Notably, the bill eliminates the previous requirement that program providers be accredited by national early learning organizations, instead making accreditation voluntary. The copayment for program participation is simplified to a flat rate of up to one dollar, replacing the previous sliding fee scale based on need. The legislation aims to enhance access to early learning services for families with young children by reducing administrative barriers and expanding program flexibility, with the ultimate goal of supporting children's developmental outcomes and preparing them for school entry in either of Hawaii's two official languages.

Health and Social Services

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=712&year=2026