This bill establishes a program aimed at assisting families with the costs of child care in Minnesota, specifically through the creation of a "great start affordability scholarship" program. The program is designed to ensure that no family pays more than seven percent of their annual income for early care and learning services for children from birth to kindergarten entry. To qualify for the scholarship, families must have an income below 150 percent of the state median income and have an eligible child who is not concurrently receiving other forms of child care assistance. The bill outlines the eligibility criteria for both families and early care programs, as well as the administration and payment practices for the scholarships.

Additionally, the bill amends Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 142A.44, subdivision 2, to include new provisions for transitioning families into the great start scholarships program, specifically adding families with children receiving great start affordability scholarships. The bill also establishes a dedicated account for the scholarships within the special revenue fund, allowing for the appropriation and management of funds allocated for this purpose. The commissioner of children, youth, and families is tasked with overseeing the implementation of the program, ensuring that families are informed about their eligibility, and managing the scholarship payments to eligible programs.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 142A.44