The bill establishes a pilot program coordinated by the Department of Administration, in collaboration with the Kansas Children's Cabinet and the Department of Health and Environment, to provide health services to child care providers working in licensed entities. The program will offer telehealth consultation services to eligible child care providers, including family child care homes and day care facilities, with specific income and insurance criteria. The program will be phased in over three fiscal years, expanding to include all child care providers by 2028. Additionally, accepted providers will receive up to $100 per month in reimbursements for prescription medication costs. The bill also mandates that the Kansas Children's Cabinet seek grant funding to help offset program costs.

Furthermore, the bill aims to create uniform standards for licensed child care across the state, prohibiting local governments from imposing stricter regulations than those established by state law. It includes provisions for matching state funding for in-home or group-home child care providers receiving lower federal reimbursements, ensuring they receive equitable support. The bill amends existing laws regarding the operation and maintenance of child care facilities, emphasizing health, safety, and welfare standards, and introduces training programs for child care providers. The bill also repeals a previous statute related to child care facilities, streamlining regulations in this area.

Statutes affected:
As introduced: 65-508