Kentucky bill proposes incentive payments tied to kindergarten readiness

FRANKFORT, Ky. (ABC36 NEWS NOW) — A new proposal in the Kentucky General Assembly could offer financial incentives aimed at helping more children start school ready to learn.

Republican State Sen. Danny Carroll has introduced Senate Bill 191, which would create a pilot program focused on rewarding kindergarten readiness. According to the proposal, child care providers or eligible low-income parents could receive incentive payments when children meet certain readiness benchmarks before entering kindergarten.

The legislation outlines a one-time payment of up to $2,000 for each qualifying child as part of the pilot effort.

Under the bill, the University of Kentucky would oversee the program and conduct research to determine whether performance-based incentives lead to improved early education outcomes across the state.

Supporters say the goal is to encourage stronger early learning preparation while also giving families and providers additional support during a child’s earliest developmental years.

Senate Bill 191 is scheduled to be considered Tuesday by the Kentucky Senate Families and Children Committee.