Bill > SB568

This bill modifies the powers and duties of the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) regarding child care facility licensing. The key changes include allowing DESE to grant temporary child care licenses for providers expanding their existing sites or adding new locations, provided they submit a complete application, pass background checks, and obtain fire safety and sanitation inspections. The temporary license would be valid for up to twelve months or until DESE makes a final determination on full licensure. The bill also clarifies that licenses must now specify their effective dates and whether they are temporary. Additionally, the bill allows child care facilities to request variances from regulations by submitting a written request, which DESE must approve unless the variance would endanger children's health or safety. The legislation maintains DESE's existing authority to inspect, grant, deny, suspend, or revoke licenses based on the provider's ability to provide care conducive to children's welfare, while ensuring that any new rules created under this authority comply with state administrative rulemaking procedures.

Health and Social Services

https://www.senate.mo.gov/25info/BTS_Web/Bill.aspx?SessionType=R&BillID=2237229