Bill > HF1383

This bill establishes a new Great Start Affordability Scholarship program to help families with the cost of child care, with the goal of ensuring that no Minnesota family pays more than 7% of their annual income for early care and learning. Families with income less than 150% of the state median income can receive scholarships for children from birth to kindergarten entry, with a minimum scholarship amount of $100 per month. Eligible families cannot simultaneously receive other child care assistance or early learning scholarships. To participate, early care and learning programs must be part of the state's quality rating and improvement system. Scholarships are awarded for 12-month periods and can be renewed, with the commissioner establishing application procedures and payment systems. The program includes provisions for scholarship transfer between programs, family notifications, and administrative oversight. Payments to eligible programs will begin no later than July 1, 2026, and the program aims to create a more accessible and affordable child care system by integrating various early learning programs and considering local community input. A special revenue fund account will be established to support the scholarship program, with up to 7% of funds allocated for administrative costs.

Education

https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=House&f=HF1383&ssn=0&y=2025