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A 1144

Requires kindergartens to operate full day programs

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Vivian Cook and 4 co-sponsors

Bill A 1144 would require all kindergartens to operate full-day programs, expanding access and requiring districts to adjust staffing, facilities, and funding.

REFERRED TO EDUCATION
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Bill Summary · A 1144

Summary of Bill A 1144 — Requires kindergartens to operate full day programs

Overview

  • Bill Number: A 1144
  • Title: Requires kindergartens to operate full day programs
  • Status: Referred to Education
  • Introduced: January 9, 2025
  • Classification: Bill
  • Primary sponsor: Amy Paulin
  • Cosponsors: Andrew Hevesi, Vivian Cook, Donna Lupardo, Philip Ramos

Purpose and Intent

  • The bill seeks to establish a statewide standard requiring all kindergartens to operate full-day programs.
  • The aim is to expand access to early childhood education, support working families, and enhance early learning opportunities for kindergartners.

Key Provisions (as introduced)

  • Mandate: All kindergartens would be required to operate on a full-day basis.
  • Details to be specified in the bill text: The exact definition of “full day,” hours of operation, staffing requirements, classroom and facility standards, and any exemptions or transitional provisions would be specified in the enacted provisions.
  • Compliance and oversight: The bill would likely assign responsibilities to school districts and/or the state Department of Education to ensure compliance with the full-day requirement.
  • Funding and resources: The enacted text would clarify funding mechanisms, including any state aid, grants, or other resources needed to implement and sustain full-day kindergarten programs.

Who Would Be Affected

  • Students: All incoming kindergartners across public school districts.
  • Families: Increased access to full-day kindergarten could impact parental work schedules and child care arrangements.
  • School Districts and Schools: Must adjust schedules, staffing, facilities, and transportation to support full-day programs.
  • Teachers and Staff: Potential need for additional hires, training, and professional development.
  • State Education Authorities: Responsible for oversight, compliance, and potential allocation of funds.

Implementation and Timeline (as of introduction)

  • The bill has been referred to the Education Committee, with no enacted start date or phase-in schedule published in the summary.
  • If advanced, the bill would typically undergo committee review, potential amendments, and floor consideration, followed by a defined start date for compliance.

Legislative History and Related Bills

  • Legislative Actions: 2025-01-09 – Referred to Education (listed twice in the actions)
  • Related Bills (prior-session): A 1774, A 331, A 5514, A 2629, A 1122, A 5785
    • These related bills suggest ongoing interest in expanding early education offerings and may inform debate on funding, implementation, and scope.

Notes

  • The current summary reflects the bill’s stated objective; specific provisions (hours, funding, exemptions, timelines) will be defined in the full text of A 1144. Stakeholders will want to monitor committee hearings for details on implementation, costs, and potential impacts.

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

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