NOTE: As provided in LFC policy, this report is intended for use by the standing finance committees of the legislature.  The Legislative Finance Committee does not assume responsibility for the accuracy of the information in this report when used in any other situation.

Only the most recent FIR version, excluding attachments, is available on the Intranet. Previously issued FIRs and attachments may be obtained from the LFC office in Suite 101 of the State Capitol Building North.

(Parenthesis ( ) Indicate Expenditure Decreases)

Relates to Appropriation in The General Appropriation Act (See Fiscal Impact)

SOURCES OF INFORMATION

LFC Files

Children, Youth and Families Department (CYFD)

SUMMARY

Synopsis of Bill

This bill appropriates $500.0 from the general fund to the Office of Child Development in the Children, Youth and Families Department for the purpose of funding early childhood services and programs with the emphasis on needs in rural areas as follows:

Community-based, in home and school programs;

In-home and school programs;

Family support services; and

Education and home visiting programs for special needs children.

Significant Issues

The appropriation would support five to eight additional communities with early childhood programs. The services would be provided through community-based programs.

PERFORMANCE IMPLICATIONS

The appropriation will augment existing programs of the Office of Child Development. One output measure is proposed as follows:

Number of statewide early childhood programs: the measure will show the additional number of rural programs established as a result of the additional appropriation.

FISCAL IMPLICATIONS

The appropriation of $500.0 contained in this bill is a recurring expense to the general fund. Any unexpended or unencumbered balance remaining at the end of fiscal year 2002 shall revert to the general fund. The Executive and the LFC budget recommendations do not include additional funding in FY02 for this program.

GAC/njw