This bill proposes the repeal of the child care assistance program in Minnesota, which includes the elimination of various sections and subdivisions from the Minnesota Statutes that pertain to child care assistance. The bill specifies a comprehensive list of statutes to be repealed, including those that define the program, outline application procedures, and establish monitoring and inspection requirements for child care centers. The effective date for these changes is set for July 1, 2027. Additionally, the bill mandates the revisor of statutes to collaborate with relevant legislative and departmental entities to identify and draft necessary statutory changes to remove references to the child care assistance program by February 1, 2027.
In conjunction with the repeal, the bill introduces new provisions aimed at enhancing child care services and ensuring safety and accessibility for enrolled children. It establishes requirements for certified child care centers, including staffing, health and safety protocols, and emergency preparedness training. The bill also emphasizes parental access to children in care and prohibits the use of prone restraints. Furthermore, it outlines the decertification process for centers involved in maltreatment cases and mandates the maintenance of comprehensive records. Overall, the legislation seeks to streamline child care services while ensuring accountability and support for families and providers within the child care assistance framework.