BILL NUMBER: S6550
SPONSOR: BRISPORT
 
TITLE OF BILL:
An act to amend the social services law, in relation to outdoor,
nature-based child care
 
SUMMARY OF PROVISIONS:
Sec. 1- legislative findings and statement of purpose
Sec. 2 - amends section 390 of the social services law by adding a new
paragraph (h) to define "outdoor, nature-based child care";
Sec. 3 - amends section 390 of the social services law by adding a new
subdivision 2-b to provide that the OCFS shall establish an outdoor,
nature-based child care program and adopt rules and regulations to
implement the program, waiving or adapting certain existing licensing
requirements designed for indoor child care facilities where necessary;
Sec. 4 - effective date.
 
JUSTIFICATION:
This bill would create a new child care licensing category in New York
State for outdoor child care programs, which applies different building
requirements than those that are applied for indoor child care provid-
ers.
The establishment of licensed outdoor nature-based child care programs
recognizes the importance of nature and exercise in children's develop-
ment. Numerous studies have shown that exposure to nature enhances
cognitive abilities, creativity, problem-solving skills, and overall
mental health. By providing children with access to outdoor learning
environments, this program will contribute to their holistic development
and well-being. Outdoor activities promote physical fitness and reduce
the risk of obesity and related health issues among children.
Outdoor nature-based child care has been increasing in popularity
nationwide in recent years. This legislation simply seeks to create an
appropriate regulatory framework to encourage the appropriate use of
these facilities.
 
PRIOR LEGISLATIVE HISTORY: New bill
 
FISCAL IMPLICATIONS FOR STATE AND LOCAL GOVERNMENTS:
To be determined.
 
EFFECTIVE DATE:
This bill shall take effect immediately.

Statutes affected:
S6550: 390 social services law, 390(1) social services law, 390(2-a) social services law, 390(4) social services law, 390(6) social services law, 390(8-a) social services law, 390(10) social services law