HB 800

Directs the Department of Health and Human Services, Division of Child Development and Early Education (Division) to study the North Carolina Pre-K and North Carolina Smart Start programs, including review of (1) complete allocation of funds for the programs, (2) other early childhood models that may better maximize funds for child care needs, and (3) current rules and guidelines for the quality rating improvement system to allow child care providers to offer child care to as many children as possible. Requires the Division to conduct an analysis of the Pre-K system to ensure every funded slot can be filled, and directs that the Division should reassign any open slots to counties with a waiting list. Permits the Division to increase class sizes to 22 in counties with available slots but no additional teachers or classrooms. Directs the Division to study current child care subsidy rates to determine a recommended minimum. Requires the Division to report its findings and recommended legislative action to the Joint Legislative Oversight Committee on Health and Human Services and the Fiscal Research Division on or before April 30, 2026.