Virginia Senate Bill SB170

Virginia 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/7/24
• Refer: 1/7/24

Caption

Out-of-school time programs; exemptions from licensure, conditions and requirements.

Impact

The bill’s implementation is expected to greatly impact the landscape of childcare services available to families, particularly by increasing the availability of out-of-school time programs. By allowing exemptions from licensure for programs that adhere to certain safety and operational criteria, SB170 aims to facilitate more flexible, responsive, and accessible care solutions for children. This could lead to a greater variety of educational and recreational opportunities for school-aged children across the state.

Summary

SB170 is a legislative proposal aimed at modifying the regulatory framework surrounding out-of-school time programs in Virginia. The bill establishes exemptions from licensure for certain childcare programs, allowing them to operate without undergoing the traditional licensing process if they meet specific conditions. This includes requirements related to staff qualifications, safety protocols, and record-keeping. The focus is on ensuring that programs have the necessary safety and health standards without the burden of licensure that can often be seen as overly bureaucratic.

Contention

Despite its potential benefits, the proposals in SB170 have sparked discussions regarding the balance between increased accessibility and ensuring child safety. Critics may argue that by easing licensing requirements, the risk of insufficient oversight could increase, potentially compromising the safety and quality of care provided to children. Supporters, on the other hand, believe that the bill better reflects the needs of families and creates an environment conducive to diverse child development programs.