MO HB603

Creates "Nathan's Law" requiring child-care facilities to obtain written licenses from the Department of Health and Senior Services, with exemptions for facilities caring for four or fewer unrelated children and certain religious organizations.

Requires licensure-exempt child-care facilities to disclose their exempt status to parents or guardians of children in their care.

Increases penalties for violating child-care licensing provisions to an infraction for first offense (up to $200 fine) and a Class A misdemeanor for subsequent offenses ($200 per day, not to exceed $10,000 total).

Authorizes the Department of Health and Senior Services to immediately close illegally operating unlicensed child-care facilities and allows the prosecuting attorney to seek permanent court orders preventing their operation.

Clarifies that facilities receiving state or federal funds (except Child and Adult Care Food Program funds) cannot claim licensure exemption status.