(1) Subject to the availability of amounts appropriated for this specific purpose, the department shall implement the tiered-reimbursement system developed pursuant to section 6, chapter 490, Laws of 2005. Implementation of the tiered-reimbursement system shall initially consist of two pilot sites in different geographic regions of the state with demonstrated public-private partnerships, with statewide implementation to follow.
(2) In implementing the tiered-reimbursement system, consideration shall be given to child care providers who provide staff wage progression.
(3) The department shall begin implementation of the two pilot sites by March 30, 2006.