CO SB020

Department of Early Childhood required to expand a centralized digital file system for child care provider information, including staff background checks, training records, credentials, and policy documents, to reduce duplicative paper documentation during licensing inspections

Beginning July 1, 2026, the department must phase out reliance on third-party contractors for facility inspections and prioritize using department licensing specialists instead, while establishing standardized training and protocols for consistency across the state

Provisional licenses of up to 9 months may be granted to child care facilities that meet all state licensing standards but face delays or disputes with local governments over zoning and land use compliance

Local governments imposing requirements beyond state licensing standards must prioritize provisionally licensed facilities, limit associated fees, and exempt from fees providers serving infants/toddlers, low-income families, or child care deserts (areas with more than 3 children under 5 per available slot)

Creates a 14-member Child Care Licensure and Quality Task Force to study and recommend reforms for a streamlined licensing system, with a report due by January 1, 2027; the task force is funded entirely by gifts, grants, and donations and repeals July 1, 2028