CT HB05449

Expands the Office of Early Childhood's responsibilities to include promoting delivery of services to infants and toddlers from birth to three years of age for optimal health, safety, and learning.

Allows the Commissioner of Early Childhood to expend up to two percent of total appropriations for early care and education programs (capped at one million dollars) for innovative service delivery, program evaluation, and results-driven funding models, with excess funds directed to service delivery.

Modifies the child care subsidy program to allow the commissioner discretion in prioritizing waiting list applicants, including preference for children under 45 CFR 98.46 and households with infants or toddlers.

Extends the cap on per-child costs for school readiness programs at $8,927 through June 30, 2019, after which the commissioner may establish new rates to improve quality and access.

Grants similar two-percent expenditure authority for innovation and program improvement to the school readiness program, supplemental quality enhancement grant program, Nurturing Families Network, and neighborhood facilities child care assistance program.