This bill amends the age requirements for individuals providing child care without supervision in Iowa. It modifies Section 237A.12 of the Code 2026, changing the terminology from "centers and registered child development homes" to "facilities." The bill establishes that individuals must be at least 18 years old to provide unsupervised child care, but it also introduces a provision allowing individuals as young as 15 to do so if they meet specific criteria.

To qualify, these younger individuals must complete department-approved training in safe sleep, first aid, and mandatory child abuse reporting, as well as have at least ten hours of documented experience providing supervised child care at a facility. The bill aims to expand the pool of potential child care providers while ensuring that they have the necessary training and experience to ensure the safety and well-being of children in their care.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 237A.12