The bill establishes a program aimed at assisting families with the cost of child care in Minnesota, specifically through the creation of a "Great Start Affordability Scholarship" program. This program is designed to make high-quality early care and learning more affordable for families with children from birth to kindergarten entry, ensuring that no family pays more than seven percent of their annual income for such services. The bill outlines eligibility criteria for families and children, including income limits and requirements for developmental screening. It also mandates the establishment of a scholarship account and details the administration of the program, including application processes, scholarship amounts, and payment practices.

Additionally, the bill amends existing statutes to allow for the disclosure of tax return information to verify eligibility for early child care and learning benefits. It includes provisions for the transfer of responsibilities related to the scholarship program and data sharing to the newly established Department of Children, Youth, and Families once it becomes operational. The bill appropriates funds from the general fund to support the Great Start Affordability Scholarships and outlines the necessary steps for implementation, including the establishment of data sharing agreements and the creation of a process for community input in early care and learning decisions.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 270B.14