Bill > H615

This bill aims to enhance health and safety standards for private child care programs serving children from infancy through kindergarten by establishing new regulatory requirements. The bill defines a "private child care program" as an educational facility that provides nonresidential care for children under 7 years old (or under 16 for children with special needs), and requires such programs to adopt policies promoting children's health and well-being. Key provisions include mandating that staff complete annual health and safety training, establishing guidelines for staff-to-child ratios, limiting the number of infants in care, and implementing potential civil fines up to $250 per violation. The Department of Early Education and Care will be responsible for creating these regulations, conducting comprehensive reviews every five years, and providing consultation to help programs comply. Additionally, the bill requires school committees and superintendents to notify the department when they approve a private child care program and mandates that programs provide advance notice before closing. The department must also create an informative website with comprehensive details about child care services, including provider licensing status and compliance with health and safety requirements, to help families make informed childcare choices.

Education

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H615