Bill > SB0214

This bill establishes the Home-based Child Care Capacity Expansion Grant Program and modifies existing regulations for child care providers. Key changes include creating a new category of "registered home-based child care provider" for those caring for more than four but fewer than ten children, and increasing the number of children allowed for licensed residential child care from nine to eleven and for certified residential child care from eight to ten. The bill also introduces a grant program, funded with $2.3 million, to support individuals starting or operating registered home-based child care businesses, prioritizing those in "child care deserts" (areas with a significant shortage of childcare slots), rural areas, or those offering non-traditional hours. Grant recipients can use funds for licensing fees, minor home modifications, equipment, and operational expenses, with a maximum award of $5,000, and must maintain expanded capacity for at least 24 months. The bill also clarifies background check requirements for all regulated child care providers, including registered home-based providers.

Business and Industry

https://le.utah.gov/~2026/bills/static/SB0214.html