House Speaker Fecteau's Bill to Expand Access to Child Care Signed Into Law
LD 1428 will support child care entrepreneurs across Maine
AUGUSTA – Governor Janet Mills has signed LD 1428 into law. The measure, presented by Speaker Ryan D. Fecteau (D-Biddeford), will help child care entrepreneurs open facilities and increase the availability of child care across Maine.
“To continue to expand access to childcare across Maine, we must find creative solutions that reduce barriers for providers who are ready to help fill needs in their communities. This bill does exactly that, which is why I was pleased to sign it into law,” said Governor Janet Mills. “I extend my appreciation to Speaker Fecteau for sponsoring, and the Legislature for enacting, this bill, which is an example of how to address a problem and find a solution in a bipartisan fashion.”
“This law will make it possible to expand much-needed child care access so Maine families across the state can find the safe, high-quality care they need for their kids,” said Speaker Ryan D. Fecteau. “It will also strengthen our economy, making it easier for those who have the spark of entrepreneurship to open child care businesses.”
LD 1428 will:
Allow child care facilities and family child care providers to operate without an outdoor recreational space if the facility is within a reasonable distance of an outdoor public recreational space.
Require municipalities to allow family child care providers to operate in any areas that are zoned for residential purposes.
"We are incredibly thankful to Speaker Ryan Fecteau for championing LD 1428 into law. This legislation meaningfully reduces barriers for child care businesses, making it easier for them to be woven into the fabric of our communities," said Heather Marden, Co-Executive Director, Maine Association for the Education of Young Children. “By supporting policies that allow child care providers to open and expand in more places, this law strengthens families, local economies, and the early childhood workforce. Speaker Fecteau’s leadership reflects a deep understanding that accessible, high-quality child care is essential to thriving communities across Maine."
The law will go into effect on Wednesday, September 24th, 90 days after adjournment of the First Special Session of the 132nd Legislature.
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