The bill amends Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 142D.21, subdivision 6, to modify the great start compensation support payments for child care programs. It stipulates that the commissioner will provide payments to all eligible programs on a noncompetitive basis, with the payment amounts determined by the number of full-time equivalent staff caring for children. A new definition of "one full-time equivalent" is introduced, which includes individuals involved in caring for children, participating in professional development or training, or lesson planning, but limits the count to no more than two full-time equivalent staff.

Additionally, the bill mandates a ten percent increase in payments for programs that receive child care assistance payments or early learning scholarships, or those located in designated child care access equity areas. The commissioner is tasked with developing criteria for these equity areas, defined as regions with low access to child care and various socioeconomic challenges. The bill also requires the commissioner to establish the form, frequency, and manner of payments under this section.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 142D.21