The bill mandates that early learning coalitions adopt a payment rate schedule that must cover all programs funded under the relevant sections. It requires these coalitions to reimburse school readiness program providers at a minimum payment rate determined by a set schedule. This change holds significant implications for how child care providers are funded, aiming to create a more stable reimbursement system that reflects market rates. Additionally, this approach could alleviate some of the financial pressures faced by child care providers, which may encourage them to continue offering services and reduce the number of children on waiting lists for these essential programs.
House Bill 1319, also known as the School Readiness Program Act, amends various sections of the Florida Statutes to improve and update the definitions and provisions surrounding early learning programs. Primarily, the bill revises the definition of 'economically disadvantaged,' increasing inclusivity by including families with incomes up to 150% of the federal poverty level or 70% of the state median income. This change aims to expand eligibility for school readiness programs and ensure that a broader range of families can access essential child care services.
One notable point of contention revolves around the implications of these changes for informal child care arrangements. The bill stipulates that such arrangements will be reimbursed at a lower percentage than formal providers, specifically not more than 50% of the rate adopted for family day care homes. Critics may argue that this could create disparities in child care quality and access, as informal providers often play a crucial role in community child care. Moreover, the bill includes a provision that the directive regarding data collection on child care personnel will expire unless renewed by the legislature, raising questions about the ongoing commitment to monitoring and supporting early childhood education efforts.