CCS/SS/SCS/HCS/HB 490 & HCS/HB 308 This act combines HBs 490 and 308, both of which modify the regulation of child care and elder care providers with and without licenses. It also establishes the Family Care Safety Act and requires a safety registry and hotline for child care and elder care providers.

As of January 1, 2001, in order to qualify for state or federal funds, child care and elder care providers must register with the family care safety registry. The definitions of "child care worker" and "elder care worker" are modified to include any person employed by a provider or who receives state or federal funds for child services. In addition to license denials, revocations, and suspensions of providers or workers, the family care safety registry must include probationary status. Appeals language is added to limit the right to appeal to the accuracy in the transfer of information.

A child care provider who applies for state or federal funds and all family members over age eighteen living with the applicant must submit to criminal background checks. Child care providers must notify the family if they have no immediate access to a telephone.

The owners or operators of a for-profit child placing agency or residential care facility may be held civilly liable for injuries or property damage caused by a child in their care. The state of Missouri and its political subdivisions will not be subject to liability.

Licensure will be required of grant or contract applicants who offer early childhood development, education, or care programs and who receive funds from the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education. This provision does not apply to grants or contracts awarded prior to August 28, 1999.

This act is substantially similar to SB 322 (1999).
ERIN MOTLEY