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Committee hears requests on early childhood lines; member seeks cuts to childcare grants and tiered payments
Summary
The Appropriations HR section reviewed several early‑childhood and childcare items, including a $6 million best‑in‑class expansion and proposed childcare grants; at least one legislator asked that funding lines be removed.
The committee reviewed multiple early‑childhood and child‑care proposals in the HHS budget. Jessica (HHS staff) said a $6 million 'best‑in‑class' expansion would continue prior growth and reach an additional 300–500 children over the biennium; she said the program remains years away from statewide coverage.
Representative Anderson asked that the $5,000,000 childcare grants, resources and shared services line be removed; he also asked that the $3,000,000 quality tiered payments line be removed. Committee staff said they are working on amendment language and would include options to reallocate or adjust funds if members prefer a different structure.
Members also discussed maintaining expanded inclusion supports, quality access teaching strategies funds and the cost of increasing provider payments. Staff suggested the long sheet show the governor’s proposed 1.5% provider inflation and also show alternative lines for 2%/2.5% increases so members can see the fiscal consequences when they vote.
Ending: No formal action taken. Staff to draft amendment language removing or modifying childcare lines as requested and to prepare versions of the long sheet that reflect alternative provider inflation scenarios.
