NC S493

Appropriates recurring General Fund increases to the NC Prekindergarten (NC Pre-K) program ranging from $87.9 million in fiscal year 2023-2024 to $154.7 million annually starting in 2027-2028 and thereafter

Raises base reimbursement rates for child care centers, public schools, and Head Start Centers participating in NC Pre-K by 3% for the 2023-2024 fiscal year

Appropriates $167 million to $247 million annually through 2027-2028 (and $267 million thereafter) to increase funding for the North Carolina Partnership for Children, Inc., representing a $20 million annual increase

Creates a refundable tax credit for eligible early education teachers and directors ranging from $500 to $2,000 based on years of service and professional education credentials, effective for taxable years beginning January 1, 2024 through December 31, 2027

Provides recurring appropriations are to be included in each fiscal year's base budget by the Director of the Budget