MN HF4496

Adds requirement for uniform rating process for all early learning programs under the quality rating system, with prohibition on automatic rating for any program including voluntary pre-kindergarten programs.

Expands early learning scholarship eligibility to include children up to age six (previously five) and siblings from birth to age six (previously five) of scholarship recipients.

Changes scholarship continuation requirement so children remain eligible until enrolling in kindergarten or becoming eligible for grade 1 under section 120A.20, rather than just kindergarten enrollment.

Prohibits differentiation of per-child scholarship amounts based on program type or rating status, but allows 15 percent differential for programs meeting specific requirements under section 119B.13, subdivision 3a.

Appropriates $70,709,000 for fiscal year 2022 and $90,709,000 for fiscal years 2023 and later for the early learning scholarship program, with $90,709,000 established as the base for fiscal year 2024 and beyond.