HI SCR71

Urges the Executive Office on Early Learning to examine and consider implementing a sliding scale tuition or fee schedule for state pre-kindergarten programs.

Notes Hawaii has among the highest child care costs in the nation, with many facilities' annual tuition exceeding University of Hawaii at Manoa in-state tuition.

Identifies that child care costs for two children often equal or exceed a full-time working parent's annual after-tax income.

References existing state programs including the Executive Office on Early Learning's public pre-kindergarten program (launched 2014-2015) and the Department of Human Services' Preschool Open Doors program providing child care subsidies.

Directs that a certified copy be transmitted to the Director of the Executive Office on Early Learning.