The bill aims to improve access to educational services by reducing barriers related to obtaining vital records, specifically birth certificates, for families with lower incomes. It waives fees for obtaining birth certificates for families receiving certain public assistance benefits, such as basic food benefits, when enrolling their children in early learning programs or public schools. Additionally, the bill amends existing law to specify that the fee for a certification or informational copy of a vital record is set at $25, while also detailing the distribution of these fees to the state treasurer and the department of children, youth, and families.

Furthermore, the bill mandates that early childhood education and assistance program contractors, as well as public schools, accept various forms of documentation to verify a child's age or date of birth for enrollment purposes. This includes not only birth certificates and passports but also alternative documents such as religious or hospital certificates, entries in family bibles, adoption records, affidavits from parents, or previously verified school records. These changes are intended to facilitate enrollment and enhance the well-being of students and families by making the process more accessible.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 70.58A.560
Substitute Bill: 70.58A.560
Bill as Passed Legislature: 70.58A.560
Session Law: 70.58A.560