The proposed legislation, Senate Bill 363, amends current child care regulations in Wisconsin to allow certified child care operators to care for up to six children under the age of seven, regardless of whether the children are related to the operator. This change is significant as it expands the capacity for certified operators, who previously could only care for three unrelated children and a total of six children, to now care for six children without the restriction of relation. The bill also modifies existing language in statute 48.65 (1) to clarify that, except as provided under the new section 48.651 (4), individuals must still obtain a license to care for four or more children.

Additionally, the bill introduces specific provisions under section 48.651 (4) that outline conditions for certified operators caring for younger children. If an operator is caring for three children under the age of two, they may care for up to five children in total, and if they are caring for four children under the age of two, they may care for up to four children in total. These adjustments aim to provide more flexibility for certified child care providers while ensuring the safety and supervision of young children.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 48.65(1), 48.65