NC S825

Appropriates recurring General Fund amounts to the NC Pre-K program starting at $87,877,017 in fiscal year 2024-2025, increasing to $154,695,673 annually beginning in 2028-2029 and thereafter.

Increases base reimbursement rates for child care centers, public schools, and Head Start Centers participating in NC Pre-K by 3% for fiscal year 2024-2025.

Appropriates $20,000,000 annually to the North Carolina Partnership for Children, Inc., starting at $167,013,453 in fiscal year 2024-2025 and increasing to $267,013,453 in 2029-2030 and subsequent years.

Establishes a refundable tax credit for eligible early education teachers and directors ranging from $500 to $2,000, based on years of service and level of professional educational achievement, with credit amounts tied to specific certifications, degrees, and coursework in early childhood education.

Tax credit sunsets effective for taxable years beginning on or after January 1, 2028; appropriations for NC Pre-K and Partnership for Children become effective July 1, 2024.