This bill amends 10 O.S. 2021, Section 405.4, which pertains to the education and continuing education requirements for directors of full-time child care centers in Oklahoma. The amendments include a shift from an annual to a two-year cycle for continuing education requirements, as established by the Department of Human Services. Additionally, the bill introduces a one-year probationary period for individuals replacing master teachers, allowing them to fulfill the educational qualifications required by the Department. The probationary period may be extended for an additional year if the individual is actively pursuing the necessary qualifications.

Furthermore, the bill provides exemptions from the educational qualifications for master teachers under certain conditions. Specifically, individuals with at least two years of full-time experience in child care or education, or those who have completed six credit hours in relevant subjects at an accredited institution, will be exempt. The bill also maintains existing space requirements for licensed child care facilities regarding floor area per infant, with specific measurements based on the date of construction or expansion. The act is set to take effect on November 1, 2025.