AZ HB2451

Amends child care staffing ratio definitions to specify that both paid and unpaid persons aged 18 or older with a high school diploma or certificate of high school equivalency qualify as staff members for ratio calculations under sections 36-883, 36-883.05, 41-1967.01, and 46-809.

Applies the expanded staff member definition to child care facilities, infant care facilities with floor bedding, child care home providers, and child care assistance programs.

Maintains existing requirements for child care facilities including standards for physical facilities, activities, nutrition, parental participation, and health and safety protocols.

Preserves current infant floor bedding regulations including mat dimensions, spacing requirements, sanitation standards, and the one staff member to four infants ratio during rest periods.

Requires child care home providers to comply with the updated staff member definition when registering with the Department of Economic Security's child care resource and referral system.