CHILD CARE-HAZARD WASTE SITE
The bill establishes an environmental risk screening program, which mandates the Environmental Protection Agency, in coordination with other relevant agencies, to evaluate proposed sites for new child care facilities. This entails conducting environmental inspections to identify any risk factors, particularly concerning the property's location and adjacent businesses. Such proactive measures are expected to improve compliance with health and safety standards in child care settings, aligning state regulations with contemporary environmental health concerns.
House Bill 3877 amends the Child Care Act of 1969 to ensure a safer environment for children attending child care facilities. The bill specifies that no new child care facility shall be established near a hazardous waste disposal site or a heavily polluted area. This measure is aimed at protecting children from potential harmful exposure to environmental contaminants. By prohibiting the establishment of child care facilities in proximity to such hazardous sites, the legislation seeks to safeguard children's health and well-being.
While the intent of HB 3877 is generally regarded as protective, there may be concerns regarding its implementation, particularly relating to the definition of 'heavily polluted areas' and how aggressive the environmental inspections will be. Stakeholders might debate the adequacy of existing environmental databases and inspection processes. Additionally, there may be apprehension from existing child care providers about the implications for their operational zones if regulations become stricter in the future.