Childcare: strategic planning councils.

Assembly Member Jackson's comprehensive childcare legislation transforms local planning councils into strategic planning councils while expanding their role in coordinating early childhood education services across California. The bill restructures council membership to ensure representation from resource agencies, education providers, local government, and parent advisory committees, while allowing councils to merge across county lines to enhance regional coordination.

The legislation establishes new planning requirements for these councils, mandating the development of three-year strategic plans beginning March 2027. These plans must address facility needs, workforce development, family access, and quality standards. Councils must conduct needs assessments every five years using standardized templates and submit annual local priorities to guide state funding allocations.

To strengthen program quality and accessibility, the bill authorizes the Department of Social Services to distribute childcare funding based on council-identified priorities and demographic needs. It requires councils to facilitate coordination between early childhood programs and K-12 schools, particularly for children with exceptional needs. The legislation also maintains existing quality rating systems while expanding eligibility for facility loans and professional development grants.

The measure includes provisions for public engagement, requiring councils to hold regular stakeholder forums and gather community input on strategic plans. Implementation is contingent upon Budget Act appropriations, with the state required to reimburse local agencies for any mandated costs. The Department must collaborate with councils to develop standardized needs assessment tools and data sharing protocols to support evidence-based planning.