The bill amends the 1973 PA 116, which regulates child care organizations in Michigan, by introducing new definitions and clarifications regarding child care facilities and staff. It redefines "child care staff member" to include individuals aged 3 and older involved in the unsupervised care of children and expands the definition of "child care center" to specify that it includes facilities caring for children under 13 for less than 24 hours, while excluding certain religious and educational programs. The bill also updates the responsibilities of the Department of Lifelong Education, Advancement, and Potential, and the Department of Health and Human Services, designating them to oversee licensing and regulatory matters for various child care organizations.

Furthermore, the bill clarifies the definitions and regulations surrounding family and group child care homes, specifying that a "family child care home" is a private residence caring for fewer than 7 minor children for less than 24 hours a day. It introduces the term "licensee designee," referring to an individual authorized to act on behalf of the organization in licensing matters. The bill establishes automatic eligibility for increased capacity for family and group child care homes after meeting specific criteria, such as holding a current license and being operational for at least 29 consecutive months, while outlining conditions for rescinding this capacity and providing an appeal process. Overall, the bill aims to enhance the regulatory framework for child care services while ensuring the welfare of children in these settings.

Statutes affected:
Senate Introduced Bill: 722.111