Bill > S1382

This bill modifies several aspects of Florida's school readiness programs to improve access for economically disadvantaged households. The legislation changes the definition of "economically disadvantaged" from 150 percent of the federal poverty level to 65 percent of the state median income, and revises the "single point of entry" concept to create a more integrated enrollment system that tracks children waiting for school readiness services based on household income and established priorities. The bill updates the Department of Education's duties to establish a more comprehensive early learning program, including creating a unified data information system and tracking waiting lists. Early learning coalitions will now be required to establish uniform waiting lists that consider family household income and program priorities. The bill also adjusts priority enrollment categories for children, creating more nuanced tiers based on family income levels, with special consideration for working families at different income brackets. Additionally, the legislation modifies how school readiness program funding is calculated, requiring the Early Learning Programs Estimating Conference to consider historical service trends and population changes when determining funding allocations. The changes aim to provide more structured and equitable access to early learning programs for low-income families, with the new provisions set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Budget and Finance

Senate Appropriations Committee on Pre-K - 12 Education (S)

https://www.flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2025/1382