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. Additionally, accepted providers will receive reimbursements for prescription medication costs. The program is set to expand its services over the next few fiscal years, ultimately including all qualifying child care providers by June 30, 2028. The Kansas Children's Cabinet is tasked with seeking grant funding to help offset program costs.

Furthermore, the bill aims to create uniform standards for licensed child care across the state, preventing local governments from imposing stricter regulations than those established by state law. It also 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 mandates training programs for child care providers. The bill repeals a previous statute and will take effect upon publication in the statute book.

Statutes affected:
As introduced: 65-508