The bill S.119, introduced by Senators Clarkson and White, seeks to establish a licensure system for early childhood educators in Vermont by creating the Vermont Board of Early Childhood Educators. This board, consisting of nine members appointed by the Governor, will oversee the licensure process, including setting educational and experiential requirements for three levels of early childhood educators (I, II, and III). The bill also defines the responsibilities of licensed educators and prohibits individuals from representing themselves as early childhood educators without proper licensure. Additionally, it includes provisions for new positions within the Office of Professional Regulation to support the licensure process and allocates $1.4 million from the General Fund for fiscal year 2026 to facilitate this initiative.

The bill also includes a repeal of certain transitional licensure provisions set to expire in 2033 and modifies definitions related to child care providers. The effective date for the establishment of the board and the licensure system is set for July 1, 2025, with a staggered implementation for various sections. Specifically, Sections related to the Office of Professional Regulation and the Vermont Board of Early Childhood Educators will take effect on July 1, 2025, while sections concerning early childhood educators, the repeal of transitional licenses, and definitions will come into effect on July 1, 2027. This phased approach aims to ensure that the necessary infrastructure and oversight mechanisms are in place before the later sections are enacted, ultimately enhancing the professional standards and regulatory framework for early childhood education in Vermont.

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