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ME LD1859
Bill
AI Summary
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Directs the Department of Health and Human Services to establish 4 regional early childhood learning and development resource hubs by November 1, 2025, with additional hubs required by July 1, 2027
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Resource hubs must conduct annual regional needs assessments, assist parents in applying for child care programs like Head Start and the Maine Child Care Affordability Program, and connect families to local and state resources
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Hubs will support child care workforce development by collaborating with higher education partners, providing professional development training, and assisting individuals interested in opening or expanding child care businesses
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Creates the Early Childhood Learning and Development Resource Hub Fund as a nonlapsing fund, with state funding requiring a 50% local match from resource hub entities
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Appropriates $471,087 in FY 2025-26 and $1,621,048 in FY 2026-27, including funding for one new Social Service Program Specialist II position and contracts for the 4 initial resource hubs beginning April 1, 2026
Legislative Description
An Act to Improve Access to Child Care and Early Childhood Education by Establishing Regional Resource Hubs
Children And Families
Last Action
CARRIED OVER, in the same posture, to any special or regular session of the 132nd Legislature, pursuant to Joint Order SP 800.
6/25/2025