This bill establishes the Commission on High-Quality Affordable Early Childhood Care and Education within the Department of Children and Families, which will operate independently and report directly to the Governor and the Legislature. The commission's primary objectives include evaluating existing structures and funding for early childhood education, identifying gaps in access and funding, and recommending sustainable solutions to ensure universal access to high-quality affordable early childhood care for children from birth to five years old. The commission will consist of 19 members, including various state commissioners and 14 public members appointed by the Governor, representing diverse sectors such as education, business, labor, and early childhood advocacy.

The commission is tasked with assessing the current state of early childhood care and education, identifying innovative financing strategies, evaluating workforce development, and analyzing the impact of universal preschool on the state's infrastructure. It will conduct at least three public hearings and may form subcommittees to further its goals. The bill also mandates the preparation of interim and final reports to the Governor and Legislature, detailing the commission's activities and recommendations for legislative and executive action. Additionally, the bill appropriates necessary funds from the General Fund to support the commission's work.