The proposed bill introduces the West Virginia Early Childhood Education Coordination Act, which aims to enhance and coordinate early childhood education and childcare services across the state. It mandates the West Virginia Department of Education and the Department of Health to work together in identifying and delivering early childhood education programs, including Pre-K and Birth to Three. The act emphasizes improving access, affordability, and quality of these services for working families, ensuring continuity of care from birth until school entry.

Additionally, the bill establishes accountability measures by requiring both the Department of Education and the Department of Health to submit annual reports to the Legislative Oversight Commission detailing program enrollment, fiscal expenditures, child development outcomes, and areas for improvement, starting July 1, 2026. The act is set to take effect on the same date, marking a significant step towards a more integrated approach to early childhood education in West Virginia.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 18-3A-1, 18-3A-2, 18-3A-3, 18-3A-4, 18-3A-5, 18-3A-6, 18-3A-7, 18-3A-8
Committee Substitute: 18-3A-1, 18-3A-2, 18-3A-3, 18-3A-4, 18-3A-5