HB 1837

Bill Subjects

Abstract

Modifies the licensure exemption requirements for certified preschool programs operated by a private school that is accredited by an organization recognized by the Board of Education. The bill removes the list of accrediting associations from the licensure exemption language and provides a reference to the Code section that establishes the process for recognition of accrediting organizations by the Board of Education. The bill removes certain licensure exemption requirements that such preschool programs must meet and modifies others, including (i) increasing the amount of time children may attend such programs per day from four hours to five hours and (ii) lowering the minimum age of children permitted to attend the programs from age four to age three. The bill also allows the Commissioner of Social Services to inspect such preschool programs to ensure compliance with applicable requirements, either annually or in response to a complaint, and requires such schools to report all incidents involving serious injury to or death of a child attending the school.