Daycare providers worry bill that would loosen regulations threatens children's safety

Child care facility de-regulation bill widely passes Idaho House, heads to state Senate

Idaho bill to would let Idaho child care facilities to set their own child-to-staff ratios "appropriate to ensure the health, safety and welfare of all children in attendance" is headed to the state Senate. (Getty Images)The Idaho House of Representatives widely passed a bill to let child care centers set their own child-to-staff ratios. Aimed at addressing Idaho’s child care crisis by easing the process to operate child care centers, House Bill…

Daycare providers worry bill that would loosen regulations threatens children's safety

Bill sponsors argue that increased flexibility will draw more people to the industry and help Idaho's childcare crisis.

Child Care Facility De-regulation Bill Widely Passes Idaho House, Heads to State Senate

De-regulation will help address Idaho’s child care shortage crisis, bill co-sponsor Rep. Barbara Ehardt says. Critics worry bill guts key safety protections.   BOISE, ID – The Idaho House of Representatives widely passed a bill to let child care centers set their own child-to-staff ratios. Aimed at addressing Idaho’s child care crisis by easing the process to operate child care centers, House Bill 243, is co-sponsored by Idaho Republican House l…

Idaho Moves To Deregulate Child Care In First-of-Its-Kind Legislation

Idaho is poised to become the first state in the country to eliminate state-mandated child-to-staff ratios for early care and education settings — a longstanding and universal licensing requirement used to ensure minimum quality standards and health and safety in environments where babies, toddlers and young children are being served. It’s one of a handful of changes included in a bill that seeks to deregulate key components of the early care an…

Senator Dick Anderson 2/28/2025 Newsletter

Oregon state Senator Dick Anderson (Click here for online version) As Oregon’s families continue to navigate the rising cost of childcare, I recognize the hard work that parents put in everyday to balance work and family life. Ensuring that parents can find high-quality, affordable childcare is a priority that deserves thoughtful and practical solutions.In the Oregon legislature, we believe in empowering parents and communities, not burdening th…