Publicly Funded Prekindergarten - Eligible Prekindergarten Provider Data Dashboard

HB 1530 requires Maryland's State Department of Education to create a publicly accessible online dashboard by July 1, 2026, displaying searchable data about eligible prekindergarten providers. The dashboard will include monthly-updated information on both public (county school-based) and private licensed providers meeting quality standards, with filters for zip code, child age, care type (home or center-based), operating hours, pricing, quality ratings, and financial aid availability. Providers can opt out of inclusion, and the department must partner with a nonprofit experienced in child care data dashboards. This bill directly affects families seeking pre-K placements and providers by increasing transparency about program options and costs.