VT S0119

Creates a three-tiered licensure system for early childhood educators in Vermont: Educator I (120-hour certificate), Educator II (associate's degree, 60 credits), and Educator III (bachelor's degree, 120 credits)

Establishes a nine-member Vermont Board of Early Childhood Educators with five-year terms, including three public members and six licensed educators (two from each tier)

Sets license fees ranging from $125-$225 for initial applications and $225-$275 for biennial renewals, with up to 24 hours of continuing education required for renewal

Appropriates $1,400,000 from the General Fund in fiscal year 2026 and authorizes five new positions in the Office of Professional Regulation to administer the program

Provides transitional licenses for up to six years (three two-year periods) for current child care teachers and directors who don't meet the new educational requirements, with the transitional license provision expiring July 1, 2033