House Sponsors: FLOWERS. Short description: EARLY CHILDHD GRANT-STEP AHEAD Synopsis of Bill as introduced: Creates the Early Childhood Grant Program Act. Establishes the Step Ahead Comprehensive Early Childhood Grant Program to award grants by county to certain entities that provide child care services. Creates the Step Ahead Panel to implement the grant program. Provides that the Panel shall consist of the Directors of Public Aid and Public Health, the Secretary of Human Services, and the State Superintendent of Education and other members appointed by the Governor. Provides that the Panel may award coordination grants and implementation grants. Provides that the Panel shall give priority to entities that already receive State funding to implement a program eligible for a grant under this Act. Requires that DCFS administer federal Child Care and Development Block Grant moneys in accordance with guidelines established by the Panel. Last action on Bill: SESSION SINE DIE Last action date: 99-01-12 Location: House Amendments to Bill: AMENDMENTS ADOPTED: HOUSE - 0 SENATE - 0 END OF INQUIRY Full Text Bill Status