Early Childhood Community Celebrates Progress Toward Simplification of Licensing Process & Professionalization of the field through Legislative Bill

The Illinois Department of Early Childhood reaches next step to streamline and improve early childhood across the state ahead of July 1 transition

Springfield – Child care licensing redesign (HB 3595) passed both chambers over the weekend thanks to the support of Leader Julie Morrison (D-29th) and Rep. Joyce Mason (D-61st). This new legislation is yet another important step on the path to simplifying and improving early childhood education and care in Illinois.

“We need the right legislation to help us build a more efficient and equitable early child care system in Illinois,” says Secretary Teresa Ramos. “This bill is just one of many steps needed to elevate the early childhood profession and reduce administration burden. It also updates antiquated language and brings transparency to families and simplicity to a workforce that is woman-lead.”

What to expect as next steps for this bill 

• Terminology change is effective immediately upon the Governor’s signature. 

• IDEC will be preparing their operations to administer background checks after July 1, 2027, once approved by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and Illinois State Police (ISP). 

• IDEC will implement the new exemption framework by July 1, 2027 

• Park Districts and Municipalities have until July 1, 2028 to comply with the new exemption framework.