HCS/SCS/SBs 322, 150, & 151 - This substitute modifies the regulation of child care facilities with and without licenses.

This act specifies license-exempt child care facilities and outlines the Department of Health's duties regarding licensure and the notice procedures for facilities and for parents. The civil liability of providers in certain situations will be in the same amount as that required of parents, pursuant to section 211.185.

Annual criminal background checks will be required of applicants for state or federal child care funds and of any person over age eighteen who is living with the applicant. If the Division of Family Services finds probable cause of abuse or neglect, licensure problems, or other past offenses, funding will be denied. Section 1.4 lists the crimes for which funds may be denied and contains an exception for the sale of fireworks. A provision is added allowing for the denial of funds when additional offenses are found.

Applicants will be given the opportunity to refute any denial of funds. If funds are denied as the result of another person living in the applicant's home, the applicant may reapply when a guarantee is given that the person will not be present when children are present. The Department of Social Services will monitor applicants who are awarded funds. Finally, providers are required to have reasonable access to a telephone.

The Department of Social Services to allocate certain amounts from its general appropriation funds for foster children clothing allowances. The amount required to be spent is to be no less than: $200 per year for children ages 0 to 5; $300 per year for children ages 6 to 12; and $400 per year for children ages 13 or older.

This act contains an emergency clause.

This act is substantially similar to the SCS/HBs 490 & 308.
ERIN MOTLEY