MN HF3131

Modifies early learning scholarship awards by removing the $5,000 per child annual cap and establishing a commissioner-determined target based on rate survey results instead.

Establishes automatic annual appropriation for early learning scholarships beginning fiscal year 2016, limited to the lesser of twice the previous year's amount or actual funding needed for all eligible requests.

Increases fiscal year 2015 appropriation for early childhood education scholarships from $23,000,000 to $43,000,000, with up to $950,000 annually for program administration.

Appropriates $500,000 for home visiting best practice standards and training; $1,600,000 for a high-risk family home visiting pilot in two counties; and $2,750,000 for grants up to $8,000 to help licensed family child care providers participate in the quality rating system.

Creates a four-year pilot program providing early childhood scholarships to families with children under age three living in Minnesota's four transformation zones, funded at $15,030,000 for fiscal year 2015, with required progress reports in February 2015, February 2017, and at program conclusion.