HOUSE FILE 224

BY  HEATON

A BILL FOR

An Act providing for implementation of a voluntary licensure system for certain home-based child care providers.
BE IT ENACTED BY THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF IOWA:

   Section 1.  Section 237A.12, Code 2011, is amended by adding the following new subsection:
   NEW SUBSECTION.  6.  The department shall develop and implement a voluntary system for licensing of child development home providers in lieu of registration. All of the requirements applicable to a registered child development home, including but not limited to the record checks under section 237A.5, shall apply to a child care provider that elects to become a licensed child development home. However, the requirements may be modified as deemed appropriate by the department to improve quality while protecting the safety of children. The standards under the voluntary licensing system may include but are not limited to acceptance of a provider’s appropriate national accreditation, providing annual and unannounced inspection visits, and requiring elements of the voluntary child care quality rating system under section 237A.30.
EXPLANATION
   This bill requires the department of human services to develop and implement a voluntary system for licensing of child development home providers in lieu of registration. The existing requirements applicable to a registered child development home remain applicable but may be modified as deemed appropriate by the department to improve quality while protecting the safety of children. The bill lists various elements that may be addressed in the standards for licensure.