This bill amends Minnesota Statutes section 142B.65 to update licensing standards for child care staff qualifications, staff ratios, and group sizes. Key changes include redefining terms such as "substitute" and "staff person," establishing new qualifications for child care center directors and staff, and outlining specific training requirements. The bill introduces new sections [142B.671], [142B.672], and [142B.673] that detail the qualifications for directors and staff, as well as the acceptable staff-to-child ratios and maximum group sizes for different age categories. Additionally, it allows for flexibility in grouping children of different ages under certain conditions.

The bill also directs the commissioners of human services and children, youth, and families to amend existing Minnesota Rules to simplify record-keeping and health requirements for child care centers. This includes reducing the number of emergency contacts required in a child's record and removing the monthly health consultation requirement for programs serving infants. Furthermore, it allows for a minimum facility temperature of 65 degrees Fahrenheit and permits children to be designated as "toddlers" starting at 14 months. The bill repeals several existing Minnesota Rules related to child care staff qualifications and ratios, streamlining the regulatory framework for child care providers.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 142B.65