IL HB3446

Requires the Department of Early Childhood to publish and annually update a comprehensive list of college early childhood courses that qualify toward teacher and director certification requirements by January 1, 2027

Mandates higher education institutions (public, private, non-profit, and for-profit) submit course information to the Department to verify whether courses meet qualification standards under administrative code

Establishes a verification process developed in consultation with stakeholders including the Illinois Community College Board, Board of Higher Education, child care providers, and early childhood advocates

Protects current and former students by requiring that removal of a course from the approved list cannot negatively impact teachers, directors, or applicants who have taken or are enrolled in the course

Requires training for applicable state staff on using the course list, its prohibitions, and the impartial oversight review process for courses deemed ineligible