MN SF3749

$1,000,000 appropriated from the general fund in fiscal year 2019 to the commissioner of employment and economic development for grants to local communities to increase child care providers and support economic development.

At least 60 percent of grant funds must be directed to communities outside the seven-county metropolitan area.

Grant recipients must secure a 50 percent nonstate match in cash or in-kind contributions; funds may be used for child care business start-up or expansion, training, facility modifications, licensing improvements, and regulatory assistance.

Commissioner must prioritize grant awards to communities with documented child care provider shortages.

Grant recipients must report within one year on program outcomes including number of new providers, jobs created, child care slots added, and local funds invested; commissioner must submit annual reports to legislature beginning January 1, 2020.