Bill > H951

This bill introduces comprehensive initiatives to address child care accessibility for state employees, first responders, and educational institutions. It mandates that the Department of Administration report on using obsolete or underutilized state-owned buildings for child care facilities, prioritizing state employees. For state construction projects over $5 million involving more than 250 workers, the bill requires including a child care or adult day care center, with exceptions for significant project delays or cost increases. The legislation establishes a pilot program through the Division of Child Development and Early Education to create three child care centers on state-owned properties, with a focus on partnering with small, high-quality providers and developing apprenticeship programs with universities or community colleges. Additionally, the bill allocates $6 million for a county grant program to support third-shift child care for first responders and requires feasibility studies for on-site child care at community colleges and University of North Carolina system campuses. A unique aspect of the bill is the creation of a Commercial Child Care Licensure Workgroup to streamline and standardize licensing requirements for child care facility physical structures across various state agencies. The bill appropriates funds for these initiatives and requires detailed reports on program implementation, with most provisions becoming effective July 1, 2025.

Government Affairs

https://www.ncleg.gov/BillLookUp/2025/H951