HF2292 Summary

• Establishes the Great Start Scholarships program to provide affordable access to high-quality early care and learning for children birth to kindergarten entry, with transition plan to fully implement by July 1, 2028.

• Modifies early learning scholarship eligibility and priority criteria, capping family contributions at seven percent of annual income, with highest priority given to children under age four and those experiencing hardship or instability.

• Requires school districts and charter schools to employ licensed teachers for preschool and early education programs beginning July 1, 2028, with exemption for teachers with five or more years of experience.

• Establishes grants for Grow Your Own Early Childhood Educator programs to develop a diverse workforce, with at least 80 percent of grant funds used for student stipends and tuition scholarships.

• Appropriates $583.6 million for fiscal years 2024-2025 for early learning scholarships ($196.7 million), Head Start programs ($35.1 million), early childhood family education ($37.5 million), and related initiatives.