Bill > HB1374

This bill modifies Maryland's prekindergarten program by changing how 3-year-olds can be enrolled in publicly funded early learning programs. Currently, the law primarily focuses on 4-year-old children, but this bill allows eligible private prekindergarten providers to opt into enrolling 3-year-old Tier I children (those from families with income at or below 300% of the federal poverty level or who are homeless). If a private provider chooses to enroll 3-year-olds, they must enter into a detailed memorandum of understanding with the State Department of Education and county boards, which includes requirements like reporting the number of slots used and the duration of enrollment. The bill aims to gradually expand prekindergarten access, with a target of increasing private provider prekindergarten slots to 50% of total slots by the 2028-2029 school year. Starting in the 2025-2026 school year, 3-year-olds can be enrolled in full-day prekindergarten programs through eligible private providers, but the enrollment is contingent on the provider's election to participate. The bill also maintains priority for enrollment for Tier I children, children with disabilities, and children from homes where English is not the primary spoken language.

Budget and Finance

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB1374?ys=2025RS