Bill > HB204

This bill establishes a dedicated Child Care Complaint Investigative Unit within the Office of Child Care Licensing (OCCL) under the Delaware Department of Education to enhance the oversight and investigation of complaints about licensed child care facilities. The unit will have comprehensive responsibilities including receiving and documenting complaints related to child care regulations, health and safety standards, and staff conduct; creating clear investigation policies and procedures; coordinating with child welfare and law enforcement agencies when serious allegations are involved; maintaining confidential records of complaints; and preparing an annual public report summarizing complaint outcomes. The unit must also create a publicly accessible online database of substantiated complaint findings while ensuring the privacy of personally identifiable information. The bill requires the Department of Education to implement the unit within 180 days by reallocating existing OCCL staff and resources, without creating new positions or requesting additional funding. The key goal is to improve transparency, accountability, and responsiveness in addressing concerns about child care providers to help protect children's safety and well-being.

Budget and Finance, Education

https://legis.delaware.gov/BillDetail?LegislationId=142430