DE HB399

Requires child care facilities under state ownership and control to obtain licensing from the Office of Child Care Licensing for any new or expanded child care programs established after July 31, 2012.

Exempts existing child care programs operated by state-owned entities that were in operation on or before July 31, 2012 from licensing requirements.

Expands licensing requirements to apply to all public and private child care programs, including preschool, pre-K, and before- and after-school services, with exceptions for federal Head Start programs and hospital maternity wards.

Exempts facilities subject to state education curriculum requirements from adhering to education curriculum standards set by the Office of Child Care Licensing.

Maintains existing investigative and approval requirements for child care licenses, including criminal background checks and determinations of facility safety and capability.