HI SCR66

Request the Department of Human Services, Department of Education, and Executive Office on Early Learning to collaborate on expanding Early Head Start program income eligibility requirements.

Direct the three agencies to determine whether broadening income eligibility would allow currently ineligible children to enroll in Early Head Start programs.

Note current income limits exclude families earning above $18,090 for a household of two and $27,430 for a household of four in Hawaii, despite inability to afford early learning programs.

Require the agencies to submit findings and recommendations to the Legislature no later than twenty days before the 2016 Regular Session convenes.

Early Head Start currently serves infants, toddlers, and pregnant women in low-income families at no cost, with eligibility exceptions for foster care, homeless, and disabled children regardless of income.