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 the child care subsidy program. Key provisions include reducing license fees and training requirements for child care providers, creating a process for temporary waivers of certain statutory requirements, and allowing the Secretary of Health and Environment and the Director of Early Childhood to develop pilot programs to enhance child care availability. The bill also outlines specific qualifications for program directors and assistant teachers in licensed child care centers, as well as requirements for professional development training for child care home providers. Additionally, it mandates annual reporting to the legislature on fund allocation, program outcomes, and recommendations for improvements, while emphasizing safety and welfare standards in child care facilities.

The bill introduces several amendments, including the redesignation of the advisory committee on children and families as the Kansas children's cabinet, which will now consist of 18 members. It establishes new licensing requirements for day care facilities, including a fee structure and penalties for non-compliance, and mandates that all children in care have current immunizations. The bill also requires criminal background checks for day care employees and prohibits individuals with certain criminal histories from operating facilities. Furthermore, it outlines the responsibilities of school districts in developing parent education programs and streamlines existing statutes related to child care and parent education. The changes are set to take effect on July 1, 2026, with the aim of enhancing the safety and quality of child care services in Kansas.

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