Bill > SB525

This bill establishes a registration process for certain children's homes that allows child care facilities to register with a qualified association instead of obtaining a traditional state license. Facilities must meet specific requirements, including being part of a well-established child care organization with at least 20 years of existence, having written policies and standards for child care, and maintaining a board of directors for oversight. The registration process involves annually filing detailed information about the facility, including its capacity, leadership, and compliance with fire, safety, health, and personnel screening standards. A new Child Protection Board will be created within the Department of Social Services to provide oversight, consisting of 13 members appointed by the governor, including foster parents, faith-based child care agency representatives, and other professionals. The board will have the authority to review complaints, make recommendations about facility registrations, and help improve child welfare standards. Registered facilities can apply to accept foster children, must maintain detailed records, and are required to have written contracts with parents or guardians. The bill also mandates background checks for all personnel and ensures that facilities still must comply with existing state and local health and safety regulations. The registration certificate will be valid for two years, and the regulations implementing this process must be established by August 28, 2026.

Health and Social Services

https://www.senate.mo.gov/25info/BTS_Web/Bill.aspx?SessionType=R&BillID=866213