(The Center Square) – Legislation creating a new state agency for early childhood programs is on its way to Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker’s desk, but the estimated new costs to taxpayers remain unknown.
Late last year, Pritzker announced he wanted to start the Department of Early Childhood to oversee various programs for early childhood services. Senate Bill 1 creates that agency with a two year transition to handle various services. State Rep. Mary Beth Canty, D-Arlington Heights, carried the bill.
“The Childcare Assistance Program, early intervention, home visiting, early childhood block grants including preschool for all and the preschool for all expansion and daycare licensing into the new Department of Early Childhood on July 1, 2026,” Canty explained.
The initial transition cost is expected to be $13.1 million, but a total cost for when the agency is ultimately created wasn’t known. State Rep. Blaine Wilhour, R-Beecher City, said the state is
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