FL H1299

Establishes the Early Learning Scholarship program (the "Brighter Future Act"), administered by the Division of Early Learning, to close the opportunity gap by increasing access to high-quality early childhood education services, effective July 1, 2022

Limits eligibility to Florida-resident students with household income not exceeding 300% of the federal poverty level who are not receiving any other scholarship under the same chapter, with continued eligibility until kindergarten admission or age 6 by February 1 of any school year

Requires early learning coalitions to award scholarships using a priority system: (1) foster care children, (2) infants/toddlers with individualized family service plans, (3) children of parents under 21 pursuing a high school diploma, (4) homeless children or children known to the department, (5) households at or below 185% of the federal poverty level, (6) students on the direct certification list, and (7) households between 185%–300% of the federal poverty level

Scholarship funds must be used for tuition and fees at eligible private prekindergarten or school readiness providers that meet minimum performance metrics, and the total award combined with other public funds may not exceed the provider's published private pay rate

Requires the Division of Early Learning to contract with an independent evaluator to assess the program's scholarship amounts, administrative efficiency, and kindergarten readiness impact, with a written report due to the Legislature and relevant state agencies by January 15, 2025