Substitute House Bill No. 6839 proposes significant changes to the regulations governing family child care homes, primarily by increasing the maximum number of children allowed in such homes 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, provided specific conditions are met. To further support child care providers, the bill prohibits rental agreements and condominium association declarations executed or amended after July 1, 2025, from restricting the operation of licensed family or group child care homes.
Additionally, the bill modifies existing laws regarding security deposits, allowing landlords to require a higher deposit from tenants operating licensed family or group child care homes, irrespective of the tenant's age. It also enables these operators to name their landlords as additional insured parties on their insurance policies. These changes, effective July 1, 2025, aim to enhance child care availability while safeguarding tenant rights and reducing barriers related to housing agreements.