HI SB3116

Establishes a priority application period for the Preschool Open Doors Program that runs from February 1 through the start of each state fiscal year, during which priority selection criteria apply to three- and four-year-old children.

Prioritizes enrollment in the following order during the priority application period: children ineligible for kindergarten due to birth date; underserved/at-risk four-year-olds previously served as three-year-olds; four-year-olds previously served as three-year-olds; four-year-olds; underserved/at-risk three-year-olds; and three-year-olds.

Requires applications received after the priority application period ends through January 31 to be processed on a first-come, first-served basis for the remainder of the fiscal year.

Authorizes the Department of Human Services to adopt rules defining a child's underserved or at-risk status, without duplicating existing rules under Hawaii Administrative Rules Chapter 17-799.

Takes effect upon approval.