MT SJ34

Requests the Legislative Council to assign an interim committee to study barriers to providing and accessing day care across Montana's regions

Requires examination of parent challenges (availability, quality, safety, affordability) and provider challenges (licensing procedures, regulations, liability, expansion restrictions)

Directs comparison of Montana's day-care laws with neighboring states and review of data from the Legislative Audit Division and Department of Labor and Industry

Mandates recommendations for reducing administrative burdens on providers, strengthening the day-care workforce through education and apprenticeships, and proposing legislative changes

Study must be completed by September 15, 2026, with final results reported to the 70th Legislature