NOTE: As provided in LFC policy, this report is intended for use by the standing finance committees of the legislature.  The Legislative Finance Committee does not assume responsibility for the accuracy of the information in this report when used in any other situation.

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(Parenthesis ( ) Indicate Expenditure Decreases)

SOURCES OF INFORMATION

LFC Files

Children, Youth and Families Department (CYFD)

SUMMARY

Synopsis of Bill

This bill appropriates $1.1 million from the general fund to CYFD for the purpose of expanding the Aim High pilot project to forty-two additional programs eligible but unfunded due to lack of appropriations ($600.0) and establishing an additional five to eight early childhood programs ($500.0).

Significant Issues

This bill would allow expansion of existing programs throughout the state. The Aim High program is designed to improve childcare by providing early childhood training and technical assistance to childcare providers. The program is based on a five-level system of quality improvement in the areas of administration, health and safety, environment, curriculum, and professional training. It provides increased reimbursement for state funded slots based upon the level attained. The program has considerable support from childcare providers and the appropriation would allow for expansion of the pilot program. In addition, the bill provides for establishing additional early childhood programs throughout the state.

PERFORMANCE IMPLICATIONS

Two output measures are proposed:

Number of childcare programs participating in Aim High.

Number of children enrolled in childcare programs participating in Aim High.

FISCAL IMPLICATIONS

The appropriation of $1,100.0 contained in this bill is a recurring expense to the general fund. Any unexpended or unencumbered balance remaining at the end of fiscal year 2002 shall revert to the general fund.

ADMINISTRATIVE IMPLICATIONS

CYFD states they will need one full-time equivalent position and some funds for operating expenses to expand the program. The needed funds are not identified. Sufficient funds are included in the bill to meet this need.

RELATIONSHIP

HB 24 would appropriate $500.0 for expansion of childcare programs in rural areas.

POSSIBLE QUESTIONS

1. How many childcare providers are waiting training and assistance so they can participate in the Aim High program?

2. What areas of the state have the most need for additional early childhood programs?

GAC/sb:prr