Maine 2023-2024 Regular Session

Maine Senate Bill LD1061

Introduced
3/7/23  
Refer
3/7/23  
Engrossed
6/12/23  
Enrolled
6/13/23  

Caption

An Act to Increase the Number of Children a Family Child Care Provider May Care for Without Having to Be Licensed by the Department of Health and Human Services

Impact

The bill's passage would significantly alter the regulatory landscape for family child care providers. By allowing more children to be cared for without licensing, proponents argue that it would facilitate greater access to child care, especially in areas where demand surpasses available licensed facilities. However, it raises concerns among some legislators and child safety advocates, who worry that this may reduce overall safety standards and oversight necessary to ensure the well-being of children in unlicensed care settings.

Summary

LD1061 is a legislative act aimed at increasing the number of children that a family child care provider can care for without the requirement of licensing from the Department of Health and Human Services. Under this bill, the allowable number of children, excluding those living in the provider's home, is raised from 2 to 4. Additionally, the bill allows providers to care for more than 4 children if they are siblings. This change is seen as a way to ease the burden on family child care providers and expand the capacity for child care services without compromising safety regulations.

Sentiment

Sentiment surrounding LD1061 is mixed. Supporters emphasize the need for increased child care capacity, viewing the bill as a pragmatic solution to high demand. They argue that it provides flexibility for family care providers, which could help alleviate ongoing child care shortages in communities. Conversely, critics caution against the potential implications for child safety and quality of care, fearing that fewer licensing requirements may lead to inadequate supervision and protections for children.

Contention

The notable points of contention include the balance between expanding access to child care and ensuring stringent safety standards. Some lawmakers emphasize that while supporting family child care initiatives, it is vital to maintain sufficient regulatory measures to protect children from harm. As the bill progressed through legislative discussions, there were concerns raised regarding the implications of loosening licensing requirements and the responsibilities of providers caring for larger groups of children.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

ME LD202

An Act to Increase the Number of Children a Child Care Provider May Care for Without Having to Be Licensed by the Department of Health and Human Services

ME HB3390

Relating to caregivers for certain children, including the identification of caregivers for children in the conservatorship of the Department of Family and Protective Services and an exception from licensing requirements for certain caretakers.

ME A1068

Permits up to 10 children to be cared for by a registered family day care provider.

ME A2910

Permits up to 10 children to be cared for by a registered family day care provider.

ME SB640

Relating to number of children who may be in family child care home

ME SB498

Relative to the department of health and human services, division for children, youth and families.

ME HB7

Relating to child protective services suits, motions, and services by the Department of Family and Protective Services and to the licensing of certain facilities, homes, and agencies that provide child-care services.

ME SB1275

Relating to the regulation of child-care facilities that provide temporary care to children of families in crisis.

ME HF5317

Governor's budget bill for health and human services; health care, child welfare, child care licensing , Department of Health, and Department of Children, Youth, and Families provisions modified; health and human services law technical changes made; appropriations for forecasted programs adjusted; penalties imposed; and money appropriated.

ME SB68

Relating to licensing and inspection requirements of the Department of Family and Protective Services for certain facilities and homes providing child care; providing penalties.

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