NY A08921

Establishes an Early Learning Council to secure support for public and private investment in early learning for children up to age five through educationally, economically, and scientifically sound practices.

Council composition includes state agency directors (Budget, Office of Children and Family Services, State Education Department, Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance, Empire State Development Corporation) and at least four business representatives appointed by the Governor, plus at least two business representatives appointed by the Speaker and Temporary Senate President.

Council must meet at least twice yearly and develop strategies to engage business and civic leaders in early learning planning, consult with early childhood education experts on funding and policy, increase public awareness of early childhood education importance, and produce annual reports with activity summaries and policy recommendations.

Appointed members serve three-year terms and continue until successors are appointed; ex-officio members serve while in their state positions; members receive no compensation except reimbursement for necessary meeting expenses.

Council may request non-identifying information from state and local governmental agencies necessary to perform its duties, with first annual report due September 1, 2015 and annually thereafter.