Bill > SJ41

This joint resolution requests the Legislative Council to assign the Children, Families, Health, and Human Services Interim Committee to conduct a comprehensive study on home-based and family child care providers in Montana, with a particular focus on rural areas and regions with limited child care options. The study aims to explore strategies for creating and supporting sustainable child care providers, particularly in "child care deserts" where parents who qualify for subsidies have few registered or licensed care options. The committee will investigate ways to streamline licensure and regulation processes for home-based day care providers, identify and address barriers to providing and accessing home-based child care, and draft legislation to clearly codify licensure and regulation requirements. The resolution mandates that all aspects of the study must be completed by September 15, 2026, and that the final results, including findings, conclusions, and recommendations, will be reported to the 70th Legislature. The underlying motivation for this study is to improve child care accessibility, support working families, and ensure quality care, especially in rural Montana communities where child care options are limited.