This bill proposes a significant restructuring of childcare services in West Virginia by transferring oversight from the Department of Human Services to the West Virginia State Board of Education. It mandates that all residential child-care centers, day-care centers, and child-placing agencies obtain licenses and approvals from the Board, thereby enhancing regulatory oversight. A new section, 49-2-1007, is introduced to detail the implementation of Early Childhood Education Centers, including funding provisions and certification processes. The bill emphasizes compliance with safety and operational standards, grants the Board authority to issue emergency rules, and requires childcare services to maintain written evacuation plans.

Additionally, the legislation allows for the establishment of Early Childhood Education Centers that can operate off-site and in licensed home businesses, while providing parents the option for in-home care without mandatory public childcare services. A three-tiered funding formula is established to support these services, involving contributions from previously allocated funds, employers (who will receive a state tax credit), and parents or guardians. The West Virginia State Board of Education will oversee provider and staff certification, while local health departments will manage inspections and food safety standards. An exemption is also included for in-home daycares with six or fewer children enrolled.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 49-2-113, 49-2-114, 49-2-115, 49-2-115a, 49-2-116, 49-2-117, 49-2-118, 49-2-119, 49-2-120, 49-2-121, 49-2-122, 49-2-123, 49-2-1007