MONTANA EARLY CHILDHOOD ACCOUNT

The Montana Early Childhood Account (MECA) was created by the 2025 Legislature (HB 924) to strengthen early care and education across Montana.

MECA provides essential funding to boost quality, workforce capacity, affordability, and access in early care programs. The initiative is meant to ensure every Montana child has the foundation they need to thrive.

MECA Board

This diverse, 10-member Board, appointed by the Governor, includes representatives from five state agencies, two early childhood organizations, two Montana child-care providers, and one parent with a child in care. The Board provides governance and oversight for MECA, ensuring funds align with legislative intent and state priorities.

Board responsibilities

The MECA Board is responsible for oversight, including establishing funding priorities in accordance with the Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS) Strategic Plan, approving and monitoring all expenditures, and evaluating the effectiveness of funded programs.

The Board must also report annually on program outcomes to the Education and the Children, Families, Health & Human Services Interim Committees.

Funds approved by the Board must be used for services and activities within five key allowable categories:

1. Provider Support and Workforce Development: Grants for business expansion, workforce training, recruitment, and retention (e.g., wage supports/stipends).
2. Quality Improvement Initiatives: Funding for accreditation, curriculum, safety upgrades, and support for infants, toddlers, and children with special needs.
3. Affordability Initiatives: Expanding before-/after-school care and supporting the state child-care subsidy program and family hardship assistance.
4. Innovation Initiatives: Community child care expansion and early intervention access programs.
5. Emergency Assistance and Disaster Relief: Aid for child-care facilities impacted by natural disasters or emergencies.