Bill to remove local zoning barriers to opening child care centers clears final step of legislative process

UPDATED: Legislation to remove barriers to opening child care facilities saw final passage Wednesday.

House Bill 561, sponsored by Rep. Samara Heavrin, would encourage collaboration between local governments, area development districts, and other community stakeholders to obtain the specific designation of a “certified child care community.”

Heavrin noted in a committee hearing many have been working diligently on child care issues in recent years and looking to find new solutions to ensure access to affordable, high-quality care for families across the state. She noted that studies have shown that one of the biggest impediments to opening child care centers is zoning, which this bill would address.

The bill saw final passage with a 86-9 vote in the House Wednesday after it passed on consent in the Senate. It previously passing 77-14 on the House floor.

House Bill 561 now heads to the Governor’s desk for his consideration.

Rep. Heavrin sat down with The Bottom Line earlier in session to discuss this and other legislation she is sponsoring on this issue. Watch the interview here.

Stay tuned to The Bottom Line for more updates throughout the 2024 session.