STATE OF OKLAHOMA

1st Session of the 54th Legislature (2013)

SENATE BILL 591	By:	Ballenger

AS INTRODUCED

An Act relating to licensing of child care facilities; amending 10 O.S. 2011, Section 401, which relates to minimum standards; clarifying language; and providing an effective date.

BE IT ENACTED BY THE PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF OKLAHOMA:
SECTION 1.     AMENDATORY     10 O.S. 2011, Section 401, is amended to read as follows:
Section 401.  A.  Sections 401 through 418 of this title shall be known and may be cited as the "Oklahoma Child Care Facilities Licensing Act".
B.  It is the declared purpose and policy of the Oklahoma Child Care Facilities Licensing Act, to:
1.  Ensure maintenance of minimum standards for the care and protection of children away from their own homes;
2.  Encourage and assist the child care facility toward maximum standards; and
3.  Work for the development of sufficient and adequate services for child care through joint work of public, private and voluntary agencies.  Whenever possible, child care facilities should help to preserve and restore family life for children.
C.  In order to provide care and protection for children in child care facilities, a license shall be obtained from the Department of Human Services, which is issued on the basis of meeting minimum standards which are essential for the health and welfare of the child or children placed for care with such agencies and individuals.
D.  The Child Care Facilities Licensing Division within the Department of Human Services shall work with representatives from municipalities to develop a single child care licensure procedure for use by state and local entities.
SECTION 2.  This act shall become effective November 1, 2013.

54-1-878	JAM	1/16/2013 2:58:26 PM