Bill > HB1119

This bill establishes a comprehensive review and improvement process for child care services and licensing in North Dakota during the 2025-26 interim period. The legislative management will conduct a study of child care provider licensing laws, rules, and policies, which will be informed by a potential program evaluation of the Department of Health and Human Services' child care services. The proposed program evaluation will include a detailed review of state and federal child care regulations, an assessment of the current child care services framework, examination of licensing requirements, funding sources, and recent legislation implementation. Additionally, the bill creates a Child Care Services Advisory Committee composed of representatives from child care centers, group child care facilities, preschool programs, legislative members, and a child care expert. This committee will collaborate with the Department of Health and Human Services to review and revise administrative rules related to child care licensing, facilitate regional meetings and focus groups with providers, and provide periodic updates and a final report to the legislative management by June 30, 2026. The ultimate goal is to improve child care services, streamline administrative processes, enhance clarity for providers, and increase access to safe and affordable child care.

Government Affairs, Labor and Employment

Human Services (H)

https://ndlegis.gov/assembly/69-2025/regular/bill-overview/bo1119.html