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Committee amends ABC preschool eligibility rules to align older slots and allow districts flexibility
Summary
HB 17 33, amended in committee, does not create more early-childhood slots but harmonizes eligibility rules across ABC slot types so local districts can use existing slots flexibly, including serving infants in some districts with start-up support.
Representative Carr presented HB 17 33 as amended, explaining the bill would not create additional ABC early-childhood slots but would align eligibility standards so newer ABCSS slots follow the same criteria as older ABC slots.
"Once I filed bill 17 33, we were contacted by several of the groups, and they asked if we could meet for an amendment," Carr said. The amendment arose from meetings with superintendents and local providers and modifies qualification language so districts can use existing slots more flexibly.
Chester Shannon, superintendent in Jackson County, told the committee his district plans to add infant slots to meet local need. "Once doctor Alleva approves some start up money, we'll be good — we'll be good on the infants," Shannon said, describing local demand and staff capacity plans.
Carr and witnesses emphasized the bill does not change slot counts or create new funding; it simply unifies eligibility criteria so districts can prioritize children who meet the combined criteria (for example, children with speech delays or other risk factors) and use slots more flexibly.
After questions about income thresholds and eligibility, the committee adopted the amendment and approved the measure by voice vote. The sponsor said the changes ease administrative barriers where districts are trying to meet local demand without new state funding.
