7. It directs the Commissioner of Education to develop and present a plan by December 31, 2004 to ensure greater equity of education opportunities and efficiency in the use of state and federal resources for early childhood education and preschool handicapped programs beginning no later than fiscal year 2005-06. The commissioner shall present this plan to the joint standing committee of the Legislature having jurisdiction over education and cultural affairs, and the joint standing committee may introduce legislation regarding this matter during the first regular session of the 122nd Legislature.

8. It adds a fiscal note and an appropriations section to provide for the appropriation and deappropriation of state funds to the pre-school handicapped program and the MaineCare program in the Department of Human Services in fiscal year 2004-05 necessary to continue to provide free and appropriate public education services for these eligible 5 year olds whose parents have chosen to have their children remain in the Child Development Services system.

FISCAL NOTE REQUIRED

(See attached)