Bill > H0182

This bill establishes a comprehensive licensure system for early childhood educators in Vermont, creating a new Vermont Board of Early Childhood Educators within the Office of Professional Regulation. The bill defines three levels of early childhood educator licenses (Early Childhood Educator I, II, and III), each with specific educational requirements and professional responsibilities. Early Childhood Educator I requires a 120-hour certificate program, Early Childhood Educator II requires an associate's degree with 60 college credits, and Early Childhood Educator III requires a bachelor's degree with 120 college credits. The bill outlines the scope of practice for each license level, including responsibilities such as planning developmentally appropriate learning experiences, maintaining safe learning environments, and developing relationships with families. Licensure will be required for professionals working with children from birth through eight years old in various settings, with some exemptions for teachers already licensed by the Agency of Education. The bill also establishes a transitional licensing process to help current early childhood professionals meet the new requirements, with licenses valid for two two-year periods. To support implementation, the bill authorizes five new permanent positions in the Office of Professional Regulation and appropriates $1,400,000 in fiscal year 2026, with the full licensure system set to take effect on July 1, 2027.

Government Affairs, Health and Social Services

https://legislature.vermont.gov/bill/status/2026/H.182