The regulation of large family child care centers. (FE)
If passed, AB389 will amend regulations concerning licensed child care centers. The Department of Children and Families (DCF) will be required to implement specific guidelines for these larger centers, including mandated ratios of caregivers to children. For larger groups of nine to twelve children, at least two providers must supervise at all times, ensuring that safety remains a top priority. The regulation will include the establishment of fees for licensing based on the number of children accepted, which will contribute to the operational costs for new child care centers.
Assembly Bill 389 focuses on the regulation of large family child care centers in Wisconsin. The bill proposes to expand the existing framework for family child care centers, which currently limits the number of children a provider can supervise. Under current regulations, child care centers may care for a maximum of eight children, but with AB389, a new category, termed 'large family child care centers,' will be created. This new classification allows for the care of up to twelve children, thereby increasing capacity for providers. The bill seeks to ensure the care provided meets safety and care standards while allowing more flexibility for family child care providers.
Notable points of contention may arise from the bill’s enactment, particularly relating to the capacity increase and its implications for children's safety. Critics may raise concerns over whether increased numbers in care settings might dilute the quality of attention and care each child receives. Additionally, the bill's potential to impose heavier operational challenges on child care providers integrating more extensive guidelines could lead to discussions on resource allocation and support from the state to help providers meet these new requirements. Stakeholders in the child care sector, including advocates and providers, will likely be engaged in ongoing discussions about these changes.