Bill > HF656

This bill modifies Minnesota's child care licensing regulations by expanding the circumstances under which the commissioner of human services can grant variances to existing rules. Specifically, the bill adds a new provision that allows the commissioner to consider variances for a child care center's licensed capacity if the center's indoor space is within 100 square feet of what would be required for maximum enrollment, based on the center's number and qualifications of staff. The bill maintains existing requirements that variance requests must be submitted on a prescribed form, explain why the applicant cannot comply with the current rule, and outline alternative measures to meet the rule's intent. The commissioner retains discretion to grant variances that do not compromise the health, safety, or staff qualifications of the child care program. Additionally, the bill continues to allow variances for staff qualification requirements, requiring a plan for the staff person to gain additional experience, education, or training. The commissioner's decision to grant or deny a variance remains final and not subject to appeal. Lastly, the bill mandates that counties use a uniform application form developed by the commissioner for variance requests from family child care license holders.

Education

https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=House&f=HF0656&ssn=0&y=2025