An Act To Create The Building Opportunity Through Out-Of-School Time Program

LD 1389 creates Maine's "Building Opportunity Through Out-of-School Time Program," a competitive grant program administered by the Department of Health and Human Services. The program directly supports at-risk school-age youth (ages 5-13 facing educational challenges due to factors like poverty or limited English) by funding structured after-school, before-school, and summer activities provided by eligible community nonprofits, libraries, or statewide youth organizations. Key provisions establish a nonlapsing fund to expand or create out-of-school programming, require the department to set clear grant application rules and publish award details online, and ensure funding complements existing support like section 1053-B. The program aims to improve youth outcomes through evidence-based activities focused on academic success, safety, career exploration, and reducing risky behaviors.