MN SF1348

Establishes a voluntary quality rating and improvement system (QRIS) framework for early learning and care programs to ensure children are ready for kindergarten by 2020.

Programs and providers that participate in the system will be rated based on the Minnesota quality rating system rating tool and common child outcome and program standards, with potential access to public funding tied to their ratings.

State shall develop a plan to link future early learning and care funding to the QRIS framework in compliance with federal requirements and realign existing state and federal administrative resources for implementation.

Tracks progress toward statewide access to high-quality programs, low-income children's access to quality programs, and kindergarten readiness.

Early learning and care programs with accreditations qualifying them for provider rate differentials under section 119B.13 must automatically receive the highest quality rating available in the system.