MN SF1613

Establishes an early learning scholarship program overseen by the Office of Early Learning in consultation with the Departments of Education, Human Services, and Health.

Makes children at least three years old whose parents earn at or below 185 percent of federal poverty level eligible to apply for scholarships to attend rated or prospective early learning programs.

Requires scholarship amounts be determined annually based on child care market rate surveys adjusted for inflation, and allows scholarships to be layered with other assistance programs while excluding local program funds.

Guarantees scholarship continuity for eligible children until kindergarten enrollment or age six, with siblings of scholarship recipients automatically eligible if attending the same program.

Appropriates $78,000,000 for fiscal year 2014, $105,000,000 for fiscal year 2015, and establishes a base appropriation of $150,000,000 for fiscal year 2016.