The bill seeks to reform child care regulations in Kansas by modifying the licensing requirements for day care facilities, child care homes, and child care centers. Key provisions include the establishment of the Kansas Office of Early Childhood to oversee licensing and related programs, the introduction of new funds for licensing fees and criminal background checks, and the creation of a process for temporary waivers of certain statutory requirements. Significant changes involve the qualifications for child care center staff, allowing program directors to also serve as lead teachers under specific conditions, and removing the requirement for child care home licensees to reside in the facility. The bill also mandates professional development training for child care providers and repeals existing sections of law that are replaced by the new provisions.

Additionally, the bill outlines strict criteria for individuals operating or working in day care facilities, including prohibitions based on certain criminal backgrounds. It establishes a day care criminal background and fingerprinting fund to cover background check costs and includes penalties for non-compliance. The Kansas Children's Cabinet is restructured to enhance oversight of children's services, and the bill mandates that no person may operate a day care facility without a license from the Kansas Office of Early Childhood. The effective date for many provisions is set for July 1, 2026, aiming to improve the safety and quality of child care services in the state.

Statutes affected:
As introduced: 38-1901, 38-2103, 48-3406, 65-503, 65-527, 65-504, 65-505, 65-508, 65-512, 65-501, 65-516, 65-531, 72-4161, 72-4162, 72-4163, 72-4164