Senate Bill 802 aims to enhance early learning opportunities for children in Tennessee by establishing the "promising futures early learning fund." This fund will be created using excess lottery revenues and other sources, specifically designated for providing scholarships to children attending high-quality early learning programs. Starting July 1, 2025, the bill mandates that 100% of net lottery proceeds not allocated for other educational purposes be transferred to this fund. The Department of Education will oversee the scholarship program, which is set to be implemented by July 1, 2026, and will include a streamlined online application process for parents.

The bill defines "high-quality early learning programs" and outlines eligibility criteria for families seeking scholarships, including income limits and employment requirements. It allows for the awarding of up to 5,000 scholarships in the first year, with a maximum value of $4,500 each, and subsequent years will depend on available funding. Additionally, the bill stipulates that funds from the promising futures early learning fund cannot replace existing state funding for child care or early learning programs. The Department of Education is also tasked with reporting on the program's implementation and outcomes by the end of 2027 and annually thereafter.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 4-51-111