Senate Bill No. [insert bill number] seeks to revise the administrative rules governing the licensure of day-care facilities in Montana by updating terminology and removing outdated references. The bill replaces "child care" with "day-care" throughout the regulations and eliminates references to school-age care. It directs the Department of Public Health and Human Services to amend various sections of the Administrative Rules of Montana (ARM) to reflect these changes, including the introduction of new definitions and the renumbering of rules for clarity. Key amendments also specify the responsibilities of directors in licensed day-care centers and outline the types of licenses and registrations available for different care settings.

The bill further establishes detailed requirements for day-care centers, including space specifications, safety protocols, and health standards. It mandates a minimum of 35 square feet of usable space per child, separate play areas for infants and older children, and compliance with the International Fire Code. Additionally, it emphasizes proper hygiene practices, nutritional requirements, and updated immunization protocols for children attending day-care facilities. The legislation also introduces stricter background check requirements for staff and mandates annual training for those working over 500 hours annually. Overall, the bill aims to enhance the safety, quality, and regulatory framework of day-care facilities in Montana.