IL SB3737

Changes the age threshold in the Child Care Act of 1969 from 3 years to 2 years for programs exempt from "day care center" licensing requirements in multiple categories (public/private schools, religious institutions, and educational programs).

Defines "children who shall have attained the age of 2 years" to mean children who are 3 years old but less than 4 years old at time of enrollment, effectively maintaining the practical 3-year threshold while changing the statutory language.

Establishes new requirements for school-age out-of-school time programs including criminal background checks, emergency procedures, liability insurance, weapons restrictions, and parental disclosure that operations are not state-regulated.

Requires out-of-school time programs not receiving state or federal funds to comply with staff qualification and training standards established by the Department of Human Services based on evidence-based quality standards.

Requires programs seeking Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) funding to request and obtain exemption from the Department prior to receiving funds and must meet eligibility requirements annually.