CO HB1001

Repeals the early childhood educator development scholarship program previously located within the department of education.

Creates the early childhood educator development fund within the department of human services, funded by general fund appropriations and private gifts, grants, or donations.

Requires the department of human services to distribute fund moneys to tax-exempt nonprofits and institutions of higher education for scholarship programs assisting early childhood education professionals in obtaining postsecondary credentials.

Establishes the state board of human services as the entity awarding scholarship grants based on criteria including alignment with state professional development priorities, applicant track record, ability to leverage additional resources, and implementation capability.

Appropriates $125,000 to the department of human services for the 2015-16 fiscal year for grant program administration and scholarship awards, with $11,553 reappropriated to the department of education for administrative costs.