Substitute House Bill No. 6839 seeks to expand the operational capacity of family child care homes by increasing the maximum number of children allowed from nine to twelve, contingent upon the presence of an approved assistant or substitute staff member. The bill also permits the care of up to three additional children who are enrolled in school full-time during the regular school year and summer months. To further support these child care providers, the bill prohibits landlords from including clauses in rental agreements or condominium association declarations that restrict the operation of licensed family or group child care homes, with these provisions set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

In addition to these changes, the bill modifies existing laws regarding rental agreements and security deposits. It allows landlords to require security deposits that exceed two months' rent for tenants operating licensed child care homes, while also ensuring that rental agreements cannot waive tenant rights. Furthermore, operators of licensed child care homes are permitted to name their landlords as additional insured parties in their insurance policies, provided the policy is issued or renewed after the effective date. Overall, the bill aims to enhance the viability of family child care services while safeguarding tenant rights against restrictive rental practices.