The proposed bill establishes the Early Education Workforce Support Pilot Program within the Department of Education, aimed at addressing the critical shortage of early education workers in Florida. The program will provide free early education services to the children of eligible early education workers, thereby reducing financial strain and improving job satisfaction and retention in the workforce. The program is set to run for two years, with funding sourced from the General Appropriations Act and potentially eligible federal funds. Key definitions are provided, including those for "early education worker," "eligible child," and "participating provider," which outline the criteria for participation in the program.
The bill outlines specific responsibilities for both the Department of Education and participating providers, including the selection of counties with the highest need for early education workers and the establishment of eligibility verification processes. Participating providers must comply with licensing requirements and report on enrollment and outcomes. Additionally, the Department is tasked with evaluating the program's effectiveness and providing recommendations for potential statewide expansion. The program is set to expire on June 30, 2028, and the State Board of Education is authorized to adopt rules for its administration. The act is scheduled to take effect on July 1, 2025.