(NASHVILLE, Tenn.) — The Tennessee House of Representatives has approved a measure sponsored by House Commerce Committee Chairman Timothy Hill (R-Blountville) that increases access to affordable and reliable childcare services in communities across Tennessee.
House Bill 2689 was approved by a 91-0 vote Thursday morning. The measure allows for faith-based organizations to offer up to 12 hours of childcare services each week. Under current law, these facilities can only provide six hours of care per day for just two days every week.
The legislation also allows for in-home care facilities that have applied for licensure to operate while their application is being processed for a period of up to one year. This will enable these types of facilities to receive state and federal funds as they await licensure so they can meet state safety standards.
“This legislation increases both access and flexibility for all those parents who are in desperate need of reliable and affordable childcare services,” said Chairman Hill. “I will continue to support our working families and fight to improve safety for all Tennessee children because they are our most precious gifts.”
For additional information on House Bill 2689, please click here.
