The bill amends the existing child care regulations under 1973 PA 116, focusing on clarifying definitions and responsibilities related to child care organizations. It introduces new legal language that updates the definitions of "child care center," "child care organization," and "child care staff member," specifying that staff members must be at least 18 years old and detailing the roles that qualify as child care staff. The definition of "child care center" is expanded to include facilities caring for children under 13 for less than 24 hours, with exclusions for certain religious and educational programs. Additionally, the bill assigns the Department of Lifelong Education, Advancement, and Potential the responsibility for licensing child care centers, while the Department of Health and Human Services will oversee child caring institutions and foster care agencies.

Furthermore, the bill addresses family and group child care homes, clarifying the criteria for increased capacity and the licensing process. It defines a "family child care home" as a private residence caring for fewer than 7 minor children for less than 24 hours a day and introduces the term "licensee designee" for individuals authorized to manage licensing matters. The bill establishes criteria for increased capacity, requiring a current license and at least 29 months of operation, while allowing the department to rescind this capacity based on licensing decisions affecting child welfare. If rescinded, a home may reapply for increased capacity after 22 months, ensuring high standards of care while providing flexibility for licensed providers.

Statutes affected:
Senate Introduced Bill: 722.111