Bill > HB2294

This bill creates the Kansas Office of Early Childhood to centralize and improve child care services and licensing in the state. The bill establishes a new state office under the direction of a gubernatorially-appointed director who will oversee various child care and early childhood programs, including day care facility licensing, child care subsidies, and parent education programs. Key provisions include reducing license fees for child care facilities (effectively making them free), modifying training requirements for child care staff, creating a process for facilities to request temporary waivers from certain regulations, and establishing new deputy director positions to manage child care licensing, advocacy, home visitation, and the children's cabinet. The bill aims to increase child care availability by providing more flexibility for providers, creating pilot programs to test innovative approaches, and streamlining administrative processes. The new office will be responsible for transition of programs starting in January 2026 and fully operational by July 1, 2026, with the director required to submit annual reports to the legislature detailing program outcomes, efficiency, and recommendations for improvement. The bill also includes provisions related to background checks, facility inspections, and maintaining child safety standards.

Budget and Finance, Business and Industry, Health and Social Services

Commerce, Labor and Economic Development (House)

https://kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/hb2294/