MD HB1373

State Department of Education must study and recommend a separate regulatory framework for child care programs serving children ages 5 and older, distinct from regulations for early childhood (under 5) programs

Study must investigate regulatory barriers faced by after-school providers who currently must follow the same licensing requirements as full-day early childhood centers, including issues with using shared spaces like schools, recreation centers, and churches

Department must analyze regulations from other states designed specifically for after-school programs and evaluate administrative approaches including licensing vs. registration, tiered licensing options, and staffing needs within the Department

Recommendations must address specific requirements for staffing, staff-to-child ratios, facility standards, background checks, training, emergency planning, inspections, parental notice, and health and safety

Report due to Senate Education, Energy, and the Environment Committee and House Ways and Means Committee by December 1, 2026; effective date July 1, 2026