child care workforce; scholarship program

HB 2901 establishes a $100 million scholarship program for low-income child care workers in Arizona. It provides funds to eligible individuals earning below 85% of the state median income who work as teachers, support staff, or district employees in contracted child care, preschool, or K-12 programs. The scholarship money is paid directly to child care providers (not individuals) on a first-come, first-served basis. The program is funded through a dedicated appropriation from the state general fund for fiscal year 2025-2026. This bill directly affects child care providers and their staff by offering financial support to retain workers in the sector.