Bill > LD2064

This bill establishes a new early childhood nutrition grant program administered by the Maine Children's Cabinet Early Childhood Advisory Council, designed to support public preschool programs located off-site from traditional school buildings. The grant program will provide funding to school administrative units that partner with public preschool providers, offering up to $1,200 per student annually to support meal services. Eligible preschool programs must meet specific criteria, including following the Department of Education's basic approval standards and providing meals that comply with national nutrition guidelines for child care centers. In addition to the per-student grant, programs can apply for a separate infrastructure grant of up to $10,000 to help them develop the capacity to provide breakfast, lunch, and snacks. The goal of the program is to expand access to nutritious meals for preschool-aged children in public early education settings, particularly for programs not located within traditional school buildings. The Maine Children's Cabinet will develop detailed eligibility standards in collaboration with the Department of Health and Human Services and the Department of Education.

Education

https://legislature.maine.gov/legis/bills/display_ps.asp?LD=2064&snum=132