MN SF1621

Increases provider rate differential for accredited child care providers from an unspecified amount to 15 percent above the maximum rate established in statute, up to the actual provider rate.

Expands eligible credentials for family child care providers to include child development associate degree or credential, diploma in child development from Minnesota state technical college, or bachelor's/post baccalaureate degree in early childhood education from accredited college or university.

Establishes specific standards that child care center accrediting organizations must meet, including standards promoting physical, social, emotional, and cognitive development, positive adult-child interactions, age-appropriate activities, staff qualifications, health and safety requirements, and family engagement.

Requires the Commissioner of Human Services, in conjunction with the Commissioners of Education and Health, to develop an application and approval process for accrediting organizations and establish periodic reassessment procedures.

Recognizes six accrediting organizations for the rate differential until the approval process is implemented: National Association for the Education of Young Children, Council on Accreditation, National Early Childhood Program Accreditation, National School-Age Care Association, National Head Start Association Program of Excellence, and specified Montessori organizations.

Requires the Commissioner of Human Services to report the developed criteria, application, approval, and reassessment processes to legislative committees by February 15, 2013.