SB 5357: Establishing a pilot project to license outdoor early learning and child care programs

The department of early learning shall establish a pilot project to license outdoor, nature-based early learning and child care programs. The pilot project shall commence beginning August 31, 2017, and conclude June 30, 2021. The pilot project must be structured to require participating providers who receive state funds to also comply with the requirements of the early achievers quality rating and improvement system.  The department shall provide the following reports to the legislature and the governor: (a) By January 15, 2018, and annually thereafter through January 2020, a brief status report describing implementation of the pilot project, including a description of participating providers and the number of children and families being served (b) By November 30, 2020, a full report on findings from the pilot project, including recommendations for modifying or expanding the availability of outdoor, nature-based early learning and child care programs.