Bill would extend timeline and offer experience pathway for childcare worker qualifications

House Bill 16-48 would extend the timeframe for licensed child care providers to meet staff qualification requirements and create a temporary stakeholder group to identify strategies for improving staff qualification rules and verification processes.

Eileen Cotto, committee staff, told the committee the bill directs the Department of Children, Youth and Families (DCYF) to allow licensed providers until at least Aug. 1, 2030, or five years from the date of hire — whichever is later — to comply with rules that require a provider to hold an initial or state certificate, complete community‑based training pathways, or demonstrate an experience‑based competency after at least five years of continuous service in a licensed facility. "The bill before you directs DCYF to allow licensed childcare providers until at least…