On March 7th, Senate Bill 2697, An Act ensuring affordability, readiness and learning for our youth and driving economic development was released from the Senate Committee on Ways and Means. Senators have until Monday, March 11th to review the legislation and file amendments, debate will be on Thursday, March 14th.

The Senate Bill:
• Codifies the Child Care Financial Assistance system.
• Makes permanent a Child Care Operational Grant program.
• Enhances workforce supports for early educators; codifying an early educator scholarship program and an educator loan forgiveness program, and creating a career ladder for early education and care educators.
• Includes a number of provisions intended to expand equitable access to early education and care; including an employer-supported child care pilot program, the prioritization of vulnerable populations throughout multiple programs, and focusing on expanding community partnerships.