Substitute House Bill No. 6839 seeks to expand the 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 inclusion of up to three additional children who are enrolled in full-time school during the regular school year and summer months. To facilitate the operation of these child care homes in residential settings, the bill prohibits any rental agreements executed or amended after July 1, 2025, from restricting licensed family or group child care homes.

Additionally, the bill modifies existing laws regarding security deposits, allowing landlords to require a security deposit that exceeds two months' rent for tenants operating licensed family child care homes. It also allows these operators to name their landlords as additional insured parties on their insurance policies, provided the policy is issued or renewed after the effective date of July 1, 2025. Overall, the bill aims to enhance child care availability while ensuring that operators have the necessary protections in residential environments.