The Minnesota Department of Human Services is asking for public feedback on new draft child care licensing standards for family and center-based child care providers. 

The changes will be the first significant revisions to the child care licensing standards since the 1980s.

The current documents are drafts, and feedback is a crucial step in the process.

“We are committed to a genuine, deliberate approach to implementing any new child care licensing standards,” said Human Services Commissioner Jodi Harpstead. “This is an opportunity to modernize Minnesota regulations in a way that improves the clarity of our regulations for providers while assuring health and safety for children.”

In-person listening sessions for child care providers, licensors and the public will take place throughout the state in June and July. Times, dates and locations can be found on the project webpage. The events will be in person; RSVPs are requested.

People can also weigh in on the draft standards through an online survey through July 15. The survey will be used to gather input on the clarity, effort and value of the draft standards. 

DHS created the draft licensing standards in consultation with the National Association for Regulatory Administration, Minnesota state agencies and subject matter experts in child development, health and safety. 

The state is sharing the draft standards now to allow time to gather important feedback from providers, licensors, parents and the general public. DHS will issue a revised draft this fall after gathering comments, with plans to present the revised draft to the Legislature next year. 

The Legislature would need to consider and pass the new standards, including establishing a start date. The legislative process includes additional opportunities for public engagement. 

Updating the child care licensing standards is part of Minnesota’s Child Care Regulation Modernization Project. 

For more information: 

• Child Care Regulation Modernization Project webpage
• Family child care draft licensing standards (PDF)
• Child care center draft licensing standards (PDF)