This bill proposes to update current statutes by appropriating $100,000 and one full-time equivalent position from the state general fund for the fiscal years 2025-2026 and 2026-2027 to the Department of Economic Security. The new position of an early childhood grant writer will be responsible for identifying grants for early childhood educational and care services for children from birth to five years old, assisting providers in applying for these grants, obtaining licensure, and providing guidance on executing grant awards.

Additionally, the bill mandates that by September 1, 2027, the Department of Economic Security must report to key state officials, including the president of the senate and the governor, on the outcomes of the grant writer's efforts. This report will include the number of successful grant awards assisted, the total dollar value of these awards, and the number of individuals and organizations that received them.