HI HB2535

Establishes a child care classroom contracts pilot program requiring the Department of Human Services to contract directly with licensed infant and toddler child care centers and group child care centers serving children 6 weeks to 5 years old, with implementation required by July 1, 2025.

Requires contracts for at least one full classroom at one infant and toddler center and two group child care centers per county, with minimum 12-month contract terms that may be extended through the pilot period.

Pilot program sunsets on June 30, 2027, with annual interim reports due to the legislature in 2025, 2026, and 2027, and a final report due before the 2028 legislative session.

Appropriates general revenue funds for fiscal year 2024-2025 to establish one temporary program specialist position for procurement and contract monitoring (specific dollar amount left blank in bill text).

Authorizes expenditure ceiling exemption for fiscal year 2024-2025 due to public interest needs (specific dollar amounts and percentages left blank in bill text).