The proposed bill seeks to reform child care regulations in Kansas by establishing the Kansas Office of Early Childhood, which will oversee day care licensing, parent education programs, and child care subsidy programs. Key provisions include the reduction of licensing fees and training requirements for child care providers, the allowance for temporary waivers of certain statutory requirements, and the creation of pilot programs to enhance child care facility availability. The bill also specifies qualifications for program directors and assistant teachers in licensed child care centers, as well as professional development training for home providers. Additionally, it mandates that the director of early childhood will oversee these functions starting July 1, 2026, and emphasizes maximizing administrative efficiencies while maintaining accountability through regular legislative reporting.

The legislation also introduces new regulations for day care facilities, including a fee structure for licensing and strict criteria for operators, prohibiting those with certain criminal backgrounds from maintaining facilities. It establishes a "day care criminal background and fingerprinting fund" to cover the costs of national criminal history checks for employees, and mandates compliance with health and safety standards. The bill amends existing laws related to child care facilities and parent education programs, requiring operators to be high school graduates, with exceptions until June 30, 2026. It streamlines the legal framework by repealing several existing statutes and allows school districts to establish parent education programs supported by state grants. Overall, the bill aims to enhance the quality, safety, and accessibility of child care services in Kansas, with many provisions set to take effect on July 1, 2026.

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, 72-4166
As Amended by House Committee: 38-1901, 38-2103, 48-3406, 65-503, 65-527, 65-504, 65-505, 65-508, 65-512, 65-531, 72-4161, 72-4162, 72-4163, 72-4164, 72-4166, 65-516
Sub: 38-1901, 38-2103, 48-3406, 65-501, 65-503, 65-527, 65-504, 65-505, 65-508, 65-512, 65-516, 65-531, 72-4161, 72-4162, 72-4163, 72-4164, 72-4166