Provides relative to early learning center licensing. (8/1/20)
Impact
The legislative changes brought forth by SB 58 are expected to strengthen the oversight of early learning centers and promote better standards in childcare practices across the state. By eliminating the exclusion of related children from licensing requirements, the bill aims to ensure that all children receive the same level of supervision and care regardless of their relationship to the caregiver. This shift is designed to enhance the safety and quality of childcare services available to families in Louisiana.
Summary
Senate Bill 58, introduced by Senator Fred Mills, centers around the licensing of early learning centers in Louisiana. The bill amends the existing laws governing child day care centers, specifically redefining who is exempt from the care requirements. Previously, children related to caregivers were not counted towards the threshold of the number of children requiring a license. This exception has now been removed, meaning that all children under the care of a licensed center must be included in the total count, which must meet the criteria of caring for seven or more children regularly.
Sentiment
The response to SB 58 has been generally positive among supporters who advocate for child welfare and safety. They argue that the bill's changes will enhance accountability and the overall quality of care, thus contributing to better developmental outcomes for children. However, there may be some concerns from small providers who worry about the increased regulatory burdens that could arise from these changes, as they may require adjustments in operational practices to comply with the revised definitions and requirements for licensing.
Contention
As with any legislative reform, there are points of contention surrounding the impacts of SB 58. Critics may argue that the removal of the exemption for related children could lead to difficulties for family-run day care services, potentially discouraging caregivers who might otherwise provide essential care options in their communities. The bill could challenge these caregivers to adhere to more stringent licensing requirements, which may disproportionately affect smaller, locally-run facilities as they navigate the new regulatory landscape.
Provides for transfer of the lead agency for the Child Care and Development Fund Block Grant and the transfer of oversight and administration of licensing and regulation of early learning centers from the Department of Children and Family Services to the Department of Education. (See Act) (EN SEE FISC NOTE GF EX See Note)
Revises the weekly hours of operation that qualify a facility for definition as a child day care center and full-time child day care center (OR SEE FISC NOTE GF EX)
Creates a new category of early childhood care facility, the early learning home provider, and requires licensure by the state Department of Education as a condition of operation
Provides for criminal background checks relative to early learning centers, school employees, registered family child care providers and in-home providers (EN INCREASE SG EX See Note)