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Senate approves child-care licensing bill tightening background checks after audit
Summary
Senators approved first substitute H.B. 254 to require more thorough background checks for child‑care licensing after a 2005 audit found providers with serious convictions had been licensed; the measure passed third reading with unanimous recorded support among those present.
The Utah Senate on Feb. 24 approved first substitute House Bill 254, tightening child‑care licensing requirements after a 2005 performance audit found that individuals with serious convictions had been granted licenses or residential certificates.
Senator Wadipes (Wadups), the sponsor, said the October 2005 audit revealed failures and that the bill requires the Department to perform more thorough background checks, including inquiries about youth living in provider homes. The bill gives licensing officials authority to deny a license on the basis of certain convictions while permitting limited exemptions for specified misdemeanors.
"Overall, this will help tighten up the licensing on childcare in our state," Wadipes said. The Senate recorded a roll-call of 25 yes votes, 0 nays, and 4 absent on third reading; the measure will proceed according to regular enrollment and enrollment processes in open session.
The bill responds to concerns about child safety in licensed settings; sponsors emphasized the changes are targeted to reduce risks while allowing case-by-case exemptions where appropriate.
