SB3892 Summary

• Establishes a 4-year pilot program to license outdoor, nature-based early learning and child care programs, running from August 31, 2020 through June 30, 2024.

• Allows the Department of Children and Family Services to waive or adapt licensing requirements to accommodate outdoor classroom operations.

• Selects up to 10 pilot locations in the first year, with additional programs able to apply starting August 31, 2021, prioritizing rural, urban, and suburban areas with limited licensed programs or waiting lists.

• Requires the Department to convene an advisory group of outdoor preschool practitioners and submit annual status reports through January 15, 2024, plus a final comprehensive report by November 30, 2024 with recommendations for expanding outdoor preschools.

• Repeals the pilot program provisions on June 30, 2026.