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GM 1304

Informing the Legislature that on June 24, 2025, the Governor signed the following bill into law: HB692 HD1 SD1 CD1 (ACT 203).

2025 Regular Session

Act 203 expands access to affordable early childhood education in Hawaii, prioritizing underserved families and supporting child care providers with funding and resources.

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Bill Summary · GM 1304

Summary of Bill GM 1304: Informing the Legislature of Act 203

Overview

Bill GM 1304 serves as a formal proclamation to inform the Hawaii State Legislature that on June 24, 2025, the Governor signed into law House Bill 692 (H.B. 692), which is now known as Act 203. This legislation focuses on the Preschool Open Doors Program, aiming to enhance access to affordable early childhood education and care for families in Hawaii.

Purpose and Intent

The primary intent of Act 203 is to expand eligibility criteria for the Preschool Open Doors Program. By doing so, the Act seeks to improve access to child care services for families with young children, ultimately contributing to better developmental outcomes for Hawaii's youngest residents.

Key Provisions

Act 203 introduces several significant changes to the existing Preschool Open Doors Program:

  1. Expanded Eligibility:

    • The Act broadens the criteria for families to access early learning services, particularly for those with children aged three to four years.
    • It prioritizes underserved or at-risk children, ensuring that those who need assistance the most receive it.

  2. Program Structure:

    • The program will provide access to early learning services that support children's physical, cognitive, linguistic, social, and emotional development.
    • Providers are required to conduct early learning assessments to track children's progress.

  3. Funding and Support:

    • The Department of Human Services will offer upfront grant funding to assist child care providers with accreditation costs.
    • Technical assistance will also be available to help providers navigate the accreditation process.

  4. Voluntary Participation:

    • Enrollment in the program is voluntary, and families may share in the costs through a sliding fee scale based on their financial needs.

  5. Interim Rules:

    • The Department may adopt interim rules to implement the program without adhering strictly to Chapter 91 of the Hawaii Revised Statutes, provided public hearings are held.

  6. Repeal of Previous Requirements:

    • The Act repeals previous accreditation requirements for service providers, allowing for more flexibility in participation.

Impact

Act 203 is expected to significantly affect:
- Families with Young Children: By increasing access to affordable child care, the Act aims to alleviate financial burdens and improve educational outcomes for children.
- Child Care Providers: The legislation provides support for accreditation, which may enhance the quality of early childhood education services offered in the state.

Procedural Aspects

  • Introduced: June 24, 2025
  • Status: Received by the Legislature on the same day.
  • Classification: Proclamation

This summary outlines the essential elements of Bill GM 1304 and Act 203, highlighting its purpose, key provisions, and potential impact on families and child care providers in Hawaii.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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