The bill S.119, introduced by Senators Clarkson and White, establishes 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) and ensuring compliance with professional standards. The bill defines the scope of practice for licensed educators, which includes providing care and educational instruction to children from birth through eight years of age, and establishes penalties for unlicensed practice.

To support the licensure process, the bill also provides for the creation of new positions within the Office of Professional Regulation and allocates $1.4 million from the General Fund for fiscal year 2026 for implementation. It repeals 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, while other sections related to early childhood educators will take effect on July 1, 2027, allowing for a phased approach to the new regulations.

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