Senate Bill No. 445, introduced by Senator Pressly, aims to amend the Louisiana Early Childhood Education Fund by enhancing its funding sources and streamlining its administration. The bill specifies that after fulfilling obligations to the Bond Security and Redemption Fund, funds will be deposited into the Early Childhood Education Fund from various sources, including cash balances from state funds in the Department of Education, with exceptions for dedicated funds and liabilities. Additionally, starting July 1, 2027, the state treasurer is directed to transfer funds from the state general fund to ensure the total in the Early Childhood Education Fund reaches thirty million dollars, provided that the unencumbered balance is less than that amount.

The bill also modifies the administration of the fund by removing the requirement that the allocation of funds be subject to legislative appropriation, thereby allowing the State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education to award funds directly to local entities for projects aimed at expanding early childhood education slots. This change is intended to facilitate quicker access to funding for eligible projects that meet specific criteria, such as providing matching funds from nonstate and nonfederal sources. The bill is set to take effect upon the governor's signature or after the designated period for gubernatorial action.

Statutes affected:
SB445 Original: 17:30(B), 39:82(J)