Bill > HB496

This bill establishes a new category of licensed childcare programs called "outdoor, nature-based early learning and child care programs," which are defined as childcare centers for children aged three to twelve that operate outdoors in natural spaces for at least fifty percent of their operating hours. The bill mandates that the Cabinet for Health and Family Services, specifically the Department for Community Based Services, must create regulations by June 30, 2027, for these programs, covering aspects like bathroom use, handwashing, weather sheltering, child-to-staff ratios, medication storage, accommodations for children with disabilities, food safety, outdoor safety boundaries, appropriate clothing, drinking water access, sleeping areas, emergency plans, land-use agreements, environmental alignment, data collection, and provider training. To assist in this process, the bill creates an Outdoor, Nature-Based Early Learning and Child Care Program Advisory Committee, composed of department officials and eleven members appointed by the Governor representing providers, environmental education, early childhood organizations, and parents, who will advise the department on these regulations and review proposed rules.

Health and Social Services

https://apps.legislature.ky.gov/record/26RS/hb496.html