The proposed bill aims to protect licensed family childcare homes in Arkansas from the termination or non-renewal of homeowners insurance coverage based solely on their operation as childcare facilities. It introduces a new subchapter under Arkansas Code Title 23, Chapter 88, which outlines the purpose of ensuring that these homes are not discriminated against by homeowners insurance providers. Key provisions include prohibiting insurance providers from canceling or refusing to renew policies based on the operation of a licensed family childcare home, as long as the home complies with applicable regulations. Additionally, it mandates that operators maintain a separate personal liability insurance policy with a minimum coverage of $100,000 per occurrence.
The bill also establishes responsibilities for operators of licensed family childcare homes, including the requirement to submit proof of their liability insurance to their homeowners insurance provider annually. The Department of Education is designated as the enforcement body for this subchapter, with the authority to promulgate rules for its implementation. Operators can file complaints with the Department if they believe their insurance provider has violated the provisions of the bill, which may lead to referrals to the State Insurance Department. Overall, the legislation seeks to create a more supportive environment for licensed family childcare homes by safeguarding their insurance coverage.