CA AB321

Adds priority for enrollment in state preschool and childcare programs for children from families where the primary home language is a language other than English, to be considered when families have the same income level and no children with exceptional needs are available for enrollment.

Requires the Superintendent of Public Instruction to develop procedures for identifying and reporting data on dual language learners enrolled in preschool programs, including distribution of a family language instrument and conducting family language and interest interviews.

Establishes that dual language learner identification procedures shall not be connected to English learner designations in the K–12 public school system.

Modifies childcare eligibility requirements in the Welfare and Institutions Code to add consideration of enrollment in certain means-tested government programs (Medi-Cal, CalFresh, etc.) as an eligibility pathway for families.

Extends the childcare eligibility certification period from 12 months to 24 months for most families, while maintaining 12-month periods for CalWORKs Stage 1, 2, and 3 program participants.