Hub coordinators present phased rulemaking plan and timeline

Maria Mendoza and Nancy Hout, early learning hub coordinators, presented a phased approach to revising hub-related rules. Phase 1 will clarify applicability, definitions, hub functions, allowable grant uses, governance, and data reporting; phase 2 will develop rules for selection criteria, funding, community planning, eligibility coordination, provider supports, monitoring, and family voice.

"In phase 1, it's really twofold: clarifying existing rules to strengthen hub infrastructure and governance, and introducing new rules to improve administrative processes, accountability, and engagement," one presenter said. The coordinators said the work builds on more than a year of engagement with partners in the BUILD initiative and that hub representation participated on work groups and the Rules Advisory Committee.

Key dates listed by presenters include a return to council on March 26, 2025, RAC and public comment through the end of May 2025, and a council vote on June 25, 2025; phase 1 rules were described as effective October 1, 2025, with phase 2 effective July 1, 2026 to align with grant agreements. Staff emphasized outreach to hubs and providers during rule development and noted that the hub work will inform both phases.