The bill H.182 proposes the establishment of a licensure system for early childhood educators in Vermont, creating a new board under the Office of Professional Regulation specifically for this purpose. The bill amends existing law to include early childhood educators as a regulated profession, adding them to the list of professions overseen by the Office. It establishes the Vermont Board of Early Childhood Educators, which will consist of nine members appointed by the Governor, including both public members and licensed early childhood educators. The board will be responsible for setting licensure requirements, providing information to applicants, and ensuring compliance with professional standards.

Additionally, the bill outlines the qualifications necessary for different levels of licensure (Early Childhood Educator I, II, and III), including educational and experiential requirements. It also specifies the scope of practice for licensed educators, prohibitions against misrepresentation, and the process for license renewal. The bill includes provisions for transitional licensure for those currently working in the field who do not meet the new educational requirements, as well as an appropriation of $1.4 million to support the implementation of this licensure system. The effective dates for various sections of the bill are staggered, with some provisions taking effect in 2025 and others in 2027.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 3-122, 26-111, 33-3511