Bill > HB1175

This bill introduces several key provisions related to child care facilities and properties in Tennessee. First, it allows child care agencies to lease or purchase underutilized or vacant properties from local education agencies (LEAs), with specific rights of first or second refusal depending on whether charter schools are present in the district. The bill establishes a process for LEAs to submit lists of underutilized properties to the Department of Human Services and allows child care agencies to request audits of these lists. It also provides detailed guidelines for leasing and potentially purchasing these properties, including maintenance responsibilities and restrictions on use. Additionally, the bill classifies child care family homes as residential properties for zoning and land use purposes, ensuring they are treated similarly to other residential dwellings and preventing local authorities from imposing stricter regulations. The legislation also modifies provisional licensing requirements for child care agencies operating in host schools, allowing their fire inspections and facilities to be evaluated based on the host school's standards. These changes aim to increase flexibility for child care providers, potentially expanding access to facilities and simplifying regulatory processes. The bill will take effect on July 1, 2025.

Education, Government Affairs

https://wapp.capitol.tn.gov/apps/Billinfo/default.aspx?BillNumber=HB1175&ga=114