Indiana establishes new multi-site child care license category effective July 2025

Indiana lawmakers are making strides to streamline child care licensing with the introduction of House Bill 1253, aimed at easing the regulatory burden on multi-site child care centers. Introduced on April 21, 2025, this bill proposes a new organizational license category that allows owners of multiple child care facilities to apply for a single license, significantly simplifying the application process.

Under the proposed legislation, owners can submit one application for multiple locations, accompanied by a single licensing fee. This approach not only reduces redundancy but also aims to alleviate the administrative load on state regulators. Each facility will still be monitored and inspected separately to ensure compliance with health and safety standards, maintaining the integrity of child care services while enhancing operational efficiency.

Key provisions of the bill include the establishment of unique license numbers for each owner and location, as well as the flexibility for owners to expand their services to meet community needs without facing excessive bureaucratic hurdles. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, with the division required to implement the new licensing category by June 30, 2026.

While the bill has garnered support for its potential to improve access to licensed child care, it has not been without debate. Critics express concerns about the adequacy of oversight for multiple facilities under a single license, fearing that it could lead to lapses in safety standards. Proponents argue that the bill strikes a balance between efficiency and accountability, ultimately benefiting families seeking quality child care options.

As Indiana continues to grapple with child care shortages, House Bill 1253 could play a pivotal role in expanding access to licensed facilities, potentially reshaping the landscape of child care in the state. The anticipated outcomes include not only a more efficient licensing process but also an increase in the availability of child care services, addressing a pressing community need.