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Subcommittee advances Smart Steps reporting bill after removing one-time TANF transfer
Summary
HB 2358, described as a reporting mechanism for the Smart Steps childcare program, was amended to remove a proposed $25 million TANF rainy-day transfer and moves to full finance 12–0.
Chairman Hawk presented HB 2358 as a measure to support the Smart Steps program and to create reporting that will inform future funding decisions. Hawk said the amendment converts a planned one-time $25 million TANF transfer into a reporting mechanism so lawmakers can better assess long-term program needs.
Representative Parkinson and others asked how the amended bill differed from the prior version; Hawk explained the previous draft would have moved $25 million from a defined TANF rainy-day fund, but the updated language removes that transfer and limits the bill to reporting and evidence preservation. Deputy Speaker Zachary and members praised the change as a prudent first step and said local providers appreciated preserving existing evidence-based home visitation funding.
The subcommittee voted 12–0 to move HB 2358 to full Finance.
