Bill > HF4728

This bill establishes the Task Force on Early Childhood Educator Licensure to develop a framework for individual licensing of early childhood educators in Minnesota, defining "commissioner" as the commissioner of children, youth, and families, "early childhood" as the period from birth to kindergarten, the "metropolitan area" as defined by state statute, and "task force" as the established group. The task force will consist of appointed members including legislators, child care providers from licensed centers and family child care programs, public school employees, a tribal representative, a Head Start representative, parents, a pediatrician or mental health professional, and a higher education expert, with the commissioner also serving. Appointments are to be made by August 1, 2026, with an emphasis on diversity, and the first meeting is scheduled for September 1, 2026, with the task force to meet at least monthly. Members will serve without compensation, and administrative support will be provided by the commissioner. The task force's duties include proposing a new individual-based licensure system, establishing competency frameworks that recognize qualifications beyond a college degree, and identifying methods to increase early childhood educator compensation. The task force is required to submit a report with its findings and recommendations, including an implementation timeline, by March 1, 2027, after which it will expire. Additionally, a one-time appropriation is made from the general fund to the commissioner of children, youth, and families for the task force's expenses in fiscal year 2027.