Funding provision for early learning scholarships

This bill appropriates $96.5 million annually for fiscal years 2026 and 2027 from the state general fund to expand the Early Learning Scholarships program. It directly provides funding for low- and middle-income families to access early childhood education services through licensed providers. The program, administered by the Commissioner of Children, Youth, and Families, increases available scholarship funds under Minnesota Statutes §142D.25. This is a concrete funding increase, not a new program or eligibility change.