ME LD1689

Public elementary schools constructed after October 1, 2025 must include space for preschool instruction or child care

Department of Education must revise the essential programs and services funding formula to fund preschool instruction similarly to kindergarten, incentivizing full-day preschool programs

Department of Education must study early childhood educator credentialing procedures to identify barriers to preschool expansion and recommend improvements for greater flexibility

Department of Health and Human Services must study standards and rules for early childhood educators to better align requirements across providers and reduce barriers to expansion

Appropriates $4.88 million over two fiscal years (2025-27), including $4 million for preschool expansion grants and funding for 4 regional coordinator positions to help schools start or expand preschool programs