July 2026

Child Care and Preschool

2026-27 Changes in Preschool Spending

(In Millions)

Change Total
Transitional kindergarten attendance and rate changes $600
Prekindergarten Planning and Implementation Grant Program (one time) 200
Restoration of one-time State Preschool reduction 81
State Preschool cost of care plus increase in lieu of COLA 51
Universal Preschool Planning Grant Program (one time) 50
Three additional State Preschool professional development days 34
Quality Rating and Improvement System 20
Removal of one-time 2025-26 spending -16
Anticipated unspent out-of-contract State Preschool funds -190
Total $831
COLA = cost-of-living adjustment.