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Childcare licensing modernization draws mixed testimony as family providers and centers clash over draft language
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Summary
Testimony split: family child care providers oppose Article 7 as written, saying it increases regulatory burden and includes problematic firearms and separation language; center operators and associations support modernization and a weighted risk system and seek inclusion of paid-break hours in compensation grants.
Committee members heard more than a half-dozen testifiers April 15 on proposed childcare licensing modernization included in the HHS omnibus draft.
Cindy Cunningham, a licensed family child care provider and public policy chair for LeadingCare, told the committee she opposes Article 7 as written and urged more collaborative drafting. "The department seems to have a negative bias and lack of understanding of our industry," Cunningham said, arguing the draft removes an infant-toddler ratio that family providers rely on, forbids short separations that current training permits and inserts firearms-notification requirements she said are overly broad.
Center-based providers and associations presented a different view. Brandy Sroga, executive director of Creative Kids Academy, said updated center standards are overdue and cited outdated rule references and safety guidance that conflict with modern practice: "It is clear that these outdated regulations no longer reflect current best practices or the realities of modern early childhood education." Dawn Uribe, owner of Mi Famigos Preschool, and Claire Sandford of the Minnesota Child Care Association echoed support for a weighted risk system that distinguishes minor technical violations from true safety hazards.
Amy Worsbach, director at Dodge Nature Center’s preschool, asked for narrowly targeted amendments to protect nature-based programs and requested clear language on animal vaccination requirements. Multiple testifiers asked that the new paid-break law be incorporated into the Great Start compensation program so providers do not lose funds when break hours are counted.
The chair and staff noted the modernization project has been multi-year work and that amendments remain possible at the next day’s markup. No action was taken at the hearing.
