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JFAC approves $14 million governor initiative for Idaho Child Care Program, reorganizes early learning budgets
Summary
The committee approved a $14,000,000 one-time governor initiative for the Idaho Child Care Program, program reorganization moves and other maintenance actions in the newly named Early Learning and Development division.
The Joint Finance-Appropriations Committee approved a $14,000,000 one-time appropriation (governor’s initiative) for the Idaho Child Care Program (ICCP) and finalized a set of program moves that reorganize early learning and related services under a new Division of Early Learning and Development.
What's included: The committee’s FY2026 motion provides $14,000,000 one time for ICCP (the governor had proposed $15,000,000), adds $4,227,000 for ICCP operations and captures a program move shifting Extended Employment Services (EES) from the developmental disabilities division into the Division of Medicaid (the motion removes 3 FTE and associated GF from early learning because EES will be added into Medicaid as part of a two-step move). The motion also included program maintenance requests, a START certification one-time request and population forecast accounting for FMAP changes.
Why it matters: Analysts told the committee there are roughly $45,000,000 of federal funds available over the next three years for child care purposes; the governor recommended $15,000,000 annually for three years but the committee action provided $14,000,000 this year as a one-time appropriation. About 70% of the federal grant must be spent on direct services (contracted slots, direct child care payments), with requirements for quality, infant services and administration caps.
Discussion and conditions: Committee members emphasized the need for clearer procurement requirements before funding large software or system purchases; senators said they expected requirements and vendor information before approving major contracts. The split between federal and state funds and the planned moves between divisions were also highlighted. The committee adopted accompanying intent language and the standard conditions, limitations and restrictions for the appropriation.
Outcome: Motion passed on a recorded roll call. The committee reported the motion out with a due-pass recommendation.
