The recent passage of House Bill 2045 in Kansas has generated significant debate regarding child care safety. The new law deregulates at-home child care, allowing unlicensed providers to care for more children and for longer hours. However, this shift has sparked serious safety concerns among various stakeholders, including the Kansas State Child Death Review Board.
Kansas Child Care Deregulation Overview
Signed into law as part of a compromise between Democratic Governor Laura Kelly and Republican lawmakers, HB 2045 aims to ease access to child care. It creates the Office of Early Childhood, a priority for Governor Kelly. The law now permits unlicensed home-based care for up to four children, including two infants, for up to 35 hours a week.
Safety Concerns Raised
The Kansas State Child Death Review Board has reported alarming statistics related to child deaths in unlicensed care settings. Their most recent annual report highlighted that:
- In the past five years, 16 children died in child care, with 9 at unlicensed providers.
- 14 of these deaths involved infants, with unsafe sleep environments being a major factor.
The board emphasizes that unlicensed care poses significant risks due to the lack of required training, background checks, and safety oversight. Without such measures, the children are more vulnerable to unsafe conditions.
Legislative Background and Changes
Previously, Kansas law allowed unlicensed child care providers to operate only if they cared for no more than two unrelated children for 20 hours a week or less. The new law increased the threshold, now allowing up to four children under more relaxed conditions. Critics argue this change compromises child safety.
The Child Death Review Board had previously recommended tighter regulations for child care providers, emphasizing the need for licensing to ensure basic safety standards. Their recommendations have been overlooked in the push for deregulation.
Reactions from Lawmakers
Despite the board’s concerns, Representative Sean Tarwater, a primary supporter of the new law, insists it empowers parents to make informed decisions about child care. He argues that the law is designed to alleviate the burdens parents face finding affordable child care and offers flexibility to families in need.
Recommendations for Parents
In light of the new law and the subsequent safety concerns, the Child Death Review Board advises parents to:
- Be aware of licensing requirements and exemptions.
- Request to see a provider’s license or certificate.
- Understand the risks associated with unlicensed care.
As Kansas undertakes this significant change in child care regulation, the balance between accessibility and child safety remains a critical concern for families and child care advocates alike.
