Sen. Millett introduces bill to increase access to public preschool programs

AUGUSTA — Legislation from Sen. Rebecca Millett, D-Cape Elizabeth, LD 1428, “An Act To Require the State To Fund 50 Percent of Public Preschool Programs,” received a public hearing before the Legislature’s Education and Cultural Affairs Committee on Wednesday. The bill would require the Department of Education to fund a minimum of 50 percent of the costs of an approved public preschool program.

“While nearly 80 percent of school districts in Maine offer at least one preschool classroom, only 43 percent of 4-year-olds are enrolled in public pre-K programs,” said Sen. Millett. “While pre-K may not be for everyone, no one should miss out because of a lack of access.”

Quality early childhood education leads to greater academic achievement, educational attainment, employment, higher earnings and better health. According to national economic studies, every dollar spent on early childhood education yields eight to 17 dollars in benefit, meaning quality early childhood education is crucial for our state and national economy.

No one spoke in opposition to LD 1428 at Wednesday’s public hearing.

The bill faces more action in the committee and votes before the Maine Senate and House.

###