House Bill 2317, also known as Senate Bill 2374, aims to enhance the regulatory framework surrounding child care businesses in Tennessee. The bill defines "child care business" to include various types of facilities such as child care agencies, family child care homes, and drop-in centers. It mandates the Tennessee Advisory Commission on Intergovernmental Relations (TACIR) to conduct a comprehensive study of the laws, regulations, and rules that affect the establishment and operation of child care businesses. This study will focus on urban, suburban, and rural areas across the state, and will involve gathering insights from child care business owners and directors to identify any burdensome regulations.
The study will specifically look for laws and regulations that impose unnecessary costs or delays on child care providers, as well as those that do not contribute to the health, safety, and welfare of the children served or the surrounding communities. TACIR is required to collaborate with relevant state departments and agencies to complete this study and must submit a report with findings and legislative recommendations by January 31, 2025. The act will take effect upon becoming law, emphasizing the importance of improving child care accessibility and reducing regulatory burdens.