Right now, childcare providers across Illinois are facing a wave of anxiety, stress, and confusion. The Governor has signed HB 2190 into law, and the current language has raised serious concerns for licensed home childcare providers.

As currently written, HB 2190 requires that at least two non-administrative staff members, certified in First Aid, CPR, and the Heimlich maneuver, on the premises during operating hours.  The law applies to child care centers, day care homes, group day care homes, child care institutions, group homes, and maternity centers. It does not explicitly state that this requirement is based on the number of children in care, which appears to mean that a licensed day care home could be held to the same "two certified staff members" requirement as much larger licensed child care settings. 

If the law is interpreted and enforced this way, the majority of licensed home childcare providers would need to hire a second non-administrative staff member to be present throughout operating hours. For many small home providers, this is simply not financially feasible and could force them to close their doors.

Unfortunately, there is widespread confusion about what HB 2190 actually requires. Providers are hearing conflicting interpretations from different sources. Some believe the law was never intended to apply to licensed day care homes, despite language that appears to include them. Others have said that although the bill has been signed into law, the rulemaking process will provide an opportunity for public comment and clarification.

To date, many home childcare providers have not received any official communication explaining how this law will be implemented. Those who have contacted licensing representatives or state officials have received inconsistent responses. Some have been told, "Don't worry—it doesn't apply to home daycares," while others have received only general statements such as, "We are aware of the concerns and are looking into them." These mixed messages have left providers uncertain about how to plan for the future.

If a significant number of licensed home childcare providers are forced to close because of this new law, Illinois could face an even greater childcare shortage. Waiting lists are already long, especially for infant care. Many families depend on home daycares because they offer small-group, nurturing, home-like environments that are especially beneficial for young children. Requiring small home providers to hire an additional full-time staff member—without clear guidance or consideration of the size of their program—is  financially impossible.

The consequences of continued uncertainty extend beyond providers. If licensed home daycares close, families will have fewer childcare options, and some providers may feel pressured to operate without a license, creating additional challenges for the state's childcare system. No provider wants that outcome.

We are not asking for lower safety standards. We are asking for communication and clarity.

Specifically, we are calling on the new Illinois Department of Early Childhood (IDEC), the Governor's Office, and state lawmakers to issue immediate written guidance explaining whether the two-certified-staff requirement in HB 2190 applies to licensed home day care providers. If the law was not intended to apply to home daycares, that clarification should be communicated publicly and without delay. If it was intended to apply, then the law or its administrative rules should be amended to reflect the unique nature of licensed home day care programs, where a single licensed provider safely cares for a small number of children in accordance with existing state regulations.

Illinois home childcare providers deserve clear, consistent guidance—not conflicting interpretations or uncertainty. Families deserve confidence that the childcare they depend on will remain available. We respectfully ask state leaders to provide immediate clarification and, if necessary, pursue legislative or administrative changes that protect both child safety and the continued viability of licensed home childcare.

Please sign this petition to support Illinois home childcare providers, preserve access to quality childcare, and encourage transparent communication regarding HB 2190.