state-rules.json

{
 "name": "state-rules",
 "title": "Youth program rules by state: childcare licensing, staff ratios, camps, background checks, medication and mandated reporting",
 "description": "Rules for childcare centers, camps and after-school programs in all 50 states and DC, summarized from official state sources and published copies of state law, with links to each source.",
 "version": "2026.10",
 "last_checked": "2026-10",
 "license": "CC-BY-4.0",
 "license_url": "https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/",
 "publisher": "BackPR",
 "page": "https://backpr.com/resources/states",
 "checked_label": "October 2026",
 "cite_as": "BackPR (2026). Youth program rules by state: childcare licensing, staff ratios, camps, background checks, medication and mandated reporting (version 2026.10, checked October 2026). https://backpr.com/data/state-rules.json. CC BY 4.0.",
 "sources": [
  "State licensing rules, statutes and agency pages, and published copies of state law such as Cornell's Legal Information Institute, listed per record"
 ],
 "notes": "General information, not legal advice. Rules change; confirm with the state agency. A null value means we couldn't confirm the fact from the sources.",
 "records": [
  {
   "state_code": "AL",
   "state": "Alabama",
   "checked": "October 2026",
   "page_url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/alabama",
   "child_care": {
    "agency": "Alabama Department of Human Resources (DHR), Child Care Services Division, Office of Child Care Licensing",
    "agency_url": "https://dhr.alabama.gov/child-care/licensing-overview/",
    "licensing": "A day care center (any facility caring for more than 12 children for all or part of a day) and day care/nighttime homes must be licensed by DHR, with licenses renewed every two years. Centers follow DHR's Child Care Licensing and Performance Standards for Day Care Centers and Nighttime Centers (Ala. Admin. Code ch. 660-5-26).",
    "school_age_exemption": "Ala. Code §38-7-2(4) excludes programs run by public school systems, and organized, periodic special-activity programs for school-age children (athletics, crafts instruction and similar) run by civic, charitable or governmental groups, as long as they meet local and state fire and health rules. Preschool programs that are part of a church ministry or religious nonprofit school can be license-exempt under §38-7-3 if they file with DHR and meet its inspection, background check and insurance conditions; exempt out-of-school-time programs that take child care subsidy must follow DHR health and safety guidelines.",
    "ratio_rule": "Ala. Admin. Code r. 660-5-26-.04(1)(a)",
    "ratios": [
     {
      "ages": "3 years (2½ up to 4 years)",
      "children_per_adult": 11,
      "max_group": null
     },
     {
      "ages": "4 years (4 up to school age)",
      "children_per_adult": 18,
      "max_group": null
     },
     {
      "ages": "5 years, not yet enrolled in school",
      "children_per_adult": 18,
      "max_group": null
     },
     {
      "ages": "School-age, enrolled in school, up to 8 years",
      "children_per_adult": 21,
      "max_group": null
     },
     {
      "ages": "8 years and older",
      "children_per_adult": 22,
      "max_group": null
     }
    ],
    "ratio_3_year_olds": 11,
    "ratio_4_year_olds": 18,
    "ratio_school_age": 21,
    "max_group_school_age": null,
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/alabama#licensing",
    "ratios_url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/alabama#ratios"
   },
   "camps": {
    "camp_license": "yes",
    "agency": "Alabama Department of Public Health, Division of Food, Milk and Lodging (permits issued by the county health department)",
    "agency_url": "https://www.alabamapublichealth.gov/foodsafety/food-and-lodging.html",
    "summary": "Day camps and resident (overnight) camps need an annual camp permit from the county health officer under Alabama's camp sanitation rules (Ala. Admin. Code ch. 420-3-21); camps that don't run year-round apply for the permit \"within 60 days prior to the opening date of the camp\", and the camp is inspected before the permit is issued and at least once during operation. These rules cover sanitation (water, sewage, food service, buildings, swimming areas), not staffing or supervision. A camp that cares for children in a way that meets the day care center definition may also fall under DHR child care licensing.",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/alabama#camps"
   },
   "background_checks": {
    "summary": "All licensed child care staff, and volunteers with unsupervised access to children, need an FBI fingerprint check, a National Sex Offender Registry (NCIC) check, a state fingerprint criminal history check, the state sex offender registry, and the Alabama child abuse/neglect central registry, plus the same registry checks in any state lived in during the past 5 years. Checks are done before hire and at least every 5 years (and again if the person has been out of child care for more than 180 days); staff can't count toward ratio until checks are complete. Alabama's camp sanitation permit rules do not set a separate background check requirement for camps.",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/alabama#background-checks"
   },
   "medication": {
    "summary": "No prescription or over-the-counter medication may be given without a health professional's order and a signed parent authorization on DHR's form (the form also covers items applied to skin, such as sunscreen and bug spray); blanket authorizations are not allowed and each form is valid for no more than 7 days unless backed by a physician's statement. Medicine must be in its original labeled container, kept locked, given by designated staff, and each dose logged with a full signature; staff need medication administration training before service and yearly.",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/alabama#medication"
   },
   "mandated_reporting": {
    "everyone_must_report": false,
    "summary": "Listed roles must report, including day care workers and employees, K-12 school employees, teachers and school officials, social workers, health care workers, clergy and anyone called on to give aid or medical help to a child. Coaches and camp staff aren't named separately, but they may be covered by these roles. Under Act 2026-375 (effective October 1, 2026), the oral report to DHR or law enforcement is due immediately and a written report within 72 hours (Ala. Code §26-14-3).",
    "hotline": "No single statewide hotline is published; call your county DHR office or local law enforcement",
    "hotline_url": "https://dhr.alabama.gov/child-abuse-neglect-reporting/",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/alabama#reporting"
   },
   "unverified": [
    "The DHR center standards PDF file name says 'PROPOSED', but the document says it took effect September 13, 2021, and its ratios match the official administrative code (r. 660-5-26-.04).",
    "Act 2026-375 (SB203), effective October 1, 2026, adds a 72-hour deadline for the written follow-up report. The legislature's site lists it as enacted, but the updated statute text was not yet available on the official Code of Alabama site to confirm.",
    "Whether a privately run, for-profit summer day camp for school-age children needs a DHR child care license (rather than only a health department camp permit) is not spelled out in an official source; confirm with DHR Child Care Licensing.",
    "The federal National Database of Child Care Licensing Regulations (licensingregulations.acf.hhs.gov) blocked automated access, so it was not used to cross-check."
   ],
   "sources": [
    {
     "label": "Alabama DHR child care licensing overview",
     "url": "https://dhr.alabama.gov/child-care/licensing-overview/",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "Ala. Admin. Code r. 660-5-26-.04 (Child Care Program)",
     "url": "https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/alabama/Ala-Admin-Code-r-660-5-26-.04",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "DHR Licensing and Performance Standards for Day Care Centers (eff. Sept. 13, 2021)",
     "url": "https://dhr.alabama.gov/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/PROPOSED-Centers-Child-Care-Licensing-and-Performance-Standards-8-26-21.pdf",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "DHR license-exempt day care facilities",
     "url": "https://dhr.alabama.gov/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/For-Website-LICENSE-EXEMPT-DAY-CARE-FACILITIES-8-2026-002.pdf",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "DHR health and safety guidelines for out-of-school-time facilities in the subsidy program",
     "url": "https://dhr.alabama.gov/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/PROPOSED-Pink-Book-Health-and-Safety-Guidelines-for-Out-of-School-Time-Facilities-9-21.pdf",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "Ala. Admin. Code ch. 420-3-21, Camp Sanitation (official code)",
     "url": "https://admincode.legislature.state.al.us/administrative-code/420-3-21",
     "topic": "camps"
    },
    {
     "label": "ADPH Food and Lodging (camp rules listed)",
     "url": "https://www.alabamapublichealth.gov/foodsafety/food-and-lodging.html",
     "topic": "camps"
    },
    {
     "label": "DHR instructions for child care comprehensive background checks",
     "url": "https://dhr.alabama.gov/instructions-for-child-care-licensing-background-checks/",
     "topic": "backgroundChecks"
    },
    {
     "label": "Ala. Admin. Code r. 660-5-26-.07 (Character and Suitability)",
     "url": "https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/alabama/Ala-Admin-Code-r-660-5-26-.07",
     "topic": "backgroundChecks"
    },
    {
     "label": "Ala. Admin. Code r. 660-5-26-.06 (Staff; training)",
     "url": "https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/alabama/Ala-Admin-Code-r-660-5-26-.06",
     "topic": "medication"
    },
    {
     "label": "DHR: Report child abuse and neglect",
     "url": "https://dhr.alabama.gov/child-abuse-neglect-reporting/",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    },
    {
     "label": "DHR county office contacts",
     "url": "https://dhr.alabama.gov/county-office-contact/",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    },
    {
     "label": "Child Welfare Information Gateway: Alabama mandatory reporting (May 2023)",
     "url": "https://www.childwelfare.gov/resources/mandatory-reporting-child-abuse-and-neglect-alabama/",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    },
    {
     "label": "SB203 (Act 2026-375) enrolled text amending Ala. Code §26-14-3",
     "url": "https://alison.legislature.state.al.us/files/pdf/SearchableInstruments/2026RS/SB203-enr.pdf",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    }
   ]
  },
  {
   "state_code": "AK",
   "state": "Alaska",
   "checked": "October 2026",
   "page_url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/alaska",
   "child_care": {
    "agency": "Alaska Department of Health, Division of Public Assistance, Child Care Program Office (in Anchorage: Anchorage Health Department, Child Care Licensing)",
    "agency_url": "https://health.alaska.gov/en/division-of-public-assistance/child-care-program-office/",
    "licensing": "Any place that regularly cares for five or more children who are not the caregiver's relatives must be licensed unless exempt (7 AAC 57.010). License types are child care homes (up to 8 children), group homes (9 to 12) and centers (13 or more); inside the Municipality of Anchorage, the city licenses child care under Anchorage Municipal Code 16.55 plus the state rules.",
    "school_age_exemption": "Exempt programs include recreation programs that let children attend but don't take responsibility for their care, programs where each parent stays on site, K-6 school programs of seven hours or less a day (but not before- or after-school care at the school), and one-time events under five weeks a year (7 AAC 57.015). A day camp is exempt only if it holds American Camp Association (or similar approved) accreditation, serves children 5 and older, runs more than five weeks a year and only during school breaks, and does fingerprint-based background checks.",
    "ratio_rule": "7 AAC 57.505(c) and 7 AAC 57.510",
    "ratios": [
     {
      "ages": "3 years (preschoolers, 3 and 4)",
      "children_per_adult": 10,
      "max_group": 20
     },
     {
      "ages": "4 years (preschoolers, 3 and 4)",
      "children_per_adult": 10,
      "max_group": 20
     },
     {
      "ages": "5 years (kindergartners, 5 and 6)",
      "children_per_adult": 14,
      "max_group": 28
     },
     {
      "ages": "School-age (7 through 12)",
      "children_per_adult": 18,
      "max_group": 36
     }
    ],
    "ratio_3_year_olds": 10,
    "ratio_4_year_olds": 10,
    "ratio_school_age": 18,
    "max_group_school_age": 36,
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/alaska#licensing",
    "ratios_url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/alaska#ratios"
   },
   "camps": {
    "camp_license": "no",
    "agency": "Alaska Department of Health, Child Care Program Office (day camps, through child care licensing)",
    "agency_url": "https://health.alaska.gov/en/division-of-public-assistance/child-care-program-office/",
    "summary": "Alaska has no separate youth camp license that we could find. A day camp that regularly cares for five or more children needs a child care license unless it meets the camp exemption in 7 AAC 57.015(a)(11): accredited by the American Camp Association or a similar approved body, serving children 5 and older, running more than five weeks a year and only during school breaks, and doing fingerprint background checks (or meeting the state's barrier-crime rules). We found no state license requirement for overnight camps.",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/alaska#camps"
   },
   "background_checks": {
    "summary": "Everyone 16 or older who works, volunteers unsupervised, lives in or regularly has contact with children at a licensed facility needs a state background check, including fingerprints for a state and FBI criminal history check plus the Alaska sex offender/child kidnapper registry and other state registries; child protection records may also be reviewed. The check must be done before the person starts (a 90-day provisional clearance is possible), names stay flagged for ongoing monitoring, and the fingerprint check is good for five years if the person stays continuously associated with a provider (a break of 100 days or more voids it). Exempt accredited day camps must still do fingerprint-based checks to the same standard.",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/alaska#background-checks"
   },
   "medication": {
    "summary": "Get written parent permission before giving any prescription medicine, and give it only as prescribed; common over-the-counter or first-aid-kit medicines need written or documented phone permission. Keep medicine in its original container labeled with the child's name, drug, dose, expiration date and directions, stored out of children's reach; only one designated employee per shift gives medication and records and initials each dose, and unused medicine goes back to the parent.",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/alaska#medication"
   },
   "mandated_reporting": {
    "everyone_must_report": false,
    "summary": "Listed professionals must report, including child care providers, school teachers and staff (including athletic coaches; unpaid volunteer coaches only after a set number of hours plus training), school volunteers working more than four hours a week, and health care workers. Reports go to the Office of Children's Services immediately, and suspected sex offenses must also be reported immediately to law enforcement (AS 47.17.020).",
    "hotline": "1-800-478-4444 (24/7); written reports to ReportChildAbuse@alaska.gov",
    "hotline_url": "https://dfcs.alaska.gov/office-of-childrens-services/report-child-abuse/",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/alaska#reporting"
   },
   "unverified": [
    "health.alaska.gov and dfcs.alaska.gov block automated access, so those agency pages (Child Care Program Office, OCS reporting page) could not be load-tested; the URLs come from search results on the official domains. The 1-800-478-4444 hotline and email are confirmed through search snippets of the official OCS pages, not by loading the pages directly.",
    "Alaska has posted proposed changes to 7 AAC 57 (including items from the Governor's Task Force on Child Care); we could not open the notices to confirm whether ratios or exemptions change. The ratios here are from the current official code on akleg.gov.",
    "Whether overnight youth camps need any state license or permit is not confirmed. The Department of Environmental Conservation says it oversees water, food, solid waste and wastewater at camps, but its page blocked automated access and it isn't clear how this applies to youth camps.",
    "The child care center 'school age' band is 7 through 12; 5- and 6-year-olds use the kindergartner ratio (1:14) even when they attend school."
   ],
   "sources": [
    {
     "label": "7 AAC 57 (Child Care Facilities Licensing), Alaska Legislature official code",
     "url": "https://www.akleg.gov/basis/aac.asp?media=print&secStart=7.57.010&secEnd=7.57.999",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "Alaska Child Care Program Office",
     "url": "https://health.alaska.gov/en/division-of-public-assistance/child-care-program-office/",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "Anchorage Health Department Child Care Licensing",
     "url": "https://www.muni.org/Departments/health/Childcare/Pages/default.aspx",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "Anchorage licensure exemptions",
     "url": "https://muni.org/Departments/health/childcare/Pages/Exemptions.aspx",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "7 AAC 10.900-10.990 barrier crimes and background checks",
     "url": "https://www.akleg.gov/basis/aac.asp?media=print&secStart=7.10.900&secEnd=7.10.1095",
     "topic": "backgroundChecks"
    },
    {
     "label": "AS 47.17.020, Alaska Statutes (official)",
     "url": "https://www.akleg.gov/basis/statutes.asp?media=print&secStart=47.17.010&secEnd=47.17.290",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    },
    {
     "label": "Office of Children's Services: Report child abuse",
     "url": "https://dfcs.alaska.gov/office-of-childrens-services/report-child-abuse/",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    },
    {
     "label": "Child Welfare Information Gateway: Alaska mandatory reporting",
     "url": "https://www.childwelfare.gov/resources/mandatory-reporting-child-abuse-and-neglect-alaska/",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    }
   ]
  },
  {
   "state_code": "AZ",
   "state": "Arizona",
   "checked": "October 2026",
   "page_url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/arizona",
   "child_care": {
    "agency": "Arizona Department of Health Services (ADHS), Bureau of Child Care Licensing",
    "agency_url": "https://www.azdhs.gov/licensing/childcare-facilities/index.php",
    "licensing": "Any facility that regularly cares for five or more unrelated children for pay, for less than 24 hours a day, is a child care facility and must be licensed by ADHS (A.R.S. §36-881, §36-882); 'child' generally means through age 14. Licensed centers follow 9 A.A.C. 5; smaller in-home child care group homes are certified under separate rules (9 A.A.C. 3).",
    "school_age_exemption": "A.R.S. §36-884 exempts programs that offer only recreational or instructional activities to school-age children who may come and go on their own (they must post a 'not licensed' notice), training only in specific subjects such as dance, drama, music, self-defense or religion, and public or private schools during the regular school day. Before- and after-school care run by a school is not exempt; public school child care must meet ADHS standards. Accredited day camps can also be exempt (see camps).",
    "ratio_rule": "Ariz. Admin. Code R9-5-404(A)",
    "ratios": [
     {
      "ages": "3 years",
      "children_per_adult": 13,
      "max_group": null
     },
     {
      "ages": "4 years",
      "children_per_adult": 15,
      "max_group": null
     },
     {
      "ages": "5 years (not yet school-age)",
      "children_per_adult": 20,
      "max_group": null
     },
     {
      "ages": "School-age",
      "children_per_adult": 20,
      "max_group": null
     }
    ],
    "ratio_3_year_olds": 13,
    "ratio_4_year_olds": 15,
    "ratio_school_age": 20,
    "max_group_school_age": null,
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/arizona#licensing",
    "ratios_url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/arizona#ratios"
   },
   "camps": {
    "camp_license": "partly",
    "agency": "Arizona Department of Health Services, Office of Environmental Health (children's camp license; inspections often delegated to county health departments)",
    "agency_url": null,
    "summary": "Overnight 'children's camps' (food and lodging for minors, open five or more days a year) need an annual ADHS children's camp license, applied for by May 1, with inspections focused on water, sewage, food service and layout (A.R.S. §36-3901 to 36-3916). Day camps are not children's camps; they need a child care facility license unless they qualify for the day camp exemption in A.R.S. §36-884(9): accredited by an ADHS-approved national day camp accreditor, open fewer than 10 weeks a year, serving only children 5 and older, posting a 'not licensed' notice, and requiring fingerprint clearance cards for all staff.",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/arizona#camps"
   },
   "background_checks": {
    "summary": "All child care staff and volunteers must have a valid DPS Level One fingerprint clearance card (state and FBI criminal history, with ongoing rap-back updates) before starting work, and sign a disclosure form on criminal history and child abuse findings (A.R.S. §36-883.02). Licensees must also submit staff for a Department of Child Safety central registry (child abuse and neglect) check and make good-faith efforts to contact previous employers. Exempt accredited day camps must still require fingerprint clearance cards; the overnight children's camp law has no background check rule of its own.",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/arizona#background-checks"
   },
   "medication": {
    "summary": "A center that gives medicine must have a written medication policy, and only the director or one staff member designated in writing (one at a time) may give it, with signed parent or health care provider authorization listing the drug, dose, route, times and reason. Prescriptions must be in the pharmacy container and over-the-counter medicine in the original package labeled with the child's name; medicine is kept locked and out of reach, the center may not keep its own stock, and every dose is logged with the staff member's signature and kept for 12 months.",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/arizona#medication"
   },
   "mandated_reporting": {
    "everyone_must_report": false,
    "summary": "Listed reporters include school personnel, health and behavioral health professionals, clergy, parents and \"any other person who has responsibility for the care or treatment of the minor.\" That phrase can include child care, camp and youth program staff, and their direct supervisors must also report. Reports must be made immediately by phone or electronically to DCS or a peace officer (A.R.S. §13-3620).",
    "hotline": "1-888-SOS-CHILD (1-888-767-2445), 24/7",
    "hotline_url": "https://dcs.az.gov/report-child-abuse/child-abuse-hotline",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/arizona#reporting"
   },
   "unverified": [
    "azdhs.gov, dcs.az.gov and the Secretary of State's code site (apps.azsos.gov) block automated access, so the ADHS licensing page and DCS hotline page could not be load-tested, and the rules were read from the Cornell LII mirror of the Arizona Administrative Code (R9-5-404 last amended 2010; R9-5-101 last amended 2022). The hotline number is confirmed through search results from dcs.az.gov.",
    "ADHS children's camp program web page URL not confirmed (left as null); the license requirement is confirmed from statute and rule.",
    "Whether 'any other person who has responsibility for the care or treatment of the minor' reaches every youth sports coach or volunteer is a legal reading, not spelled out in the statute.",
    "A 2022 bill on child care staff ratios (HB 2451) appeared in search results; R9-5-404 shows no change since 2010, so we assume it did not change the rule."
   ],
   "sources": [
    {
     "label": "Ariz. Admin. Code R9-5-404 Staff-to-children ratios",
     "url": "https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/arizona/Ariz-Admin-Code-SS-R9-5-404",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "Ariz. Admin. Code R9-5-101 Definitions",
     "url": "https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/arizona/Ariz-Admin-Code-SS-R9-5-101",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "A.R.S. §36-881 Definitions",
     "url": "https://www.azleg.gov/ars/36/00881.htm",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "A.R.S. §36-884 Exemptions",
     "url": "https://www.azleg.gov/ars/36/00884.htm",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "A.R.S. §36-883.04 Public school child care standards",
     "url": "https://www.azleg.gov/ars/36/00883-04.htm",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "A.R.S. §36-3901 Children's camp definition",
     "url": "https://www.azleg.gov/ars/36/03901.htm",
     "topic": "camps"
    },
    {
     "label": "A.R.S. §36-3902 Children's camp license",
     "url": "https://www.azleg.gov/ars/36/03902.htm",
     "topic": "camps"
    },
    {
     "label": "Ariz. Admin. Code R9-8-402 Children's camp licensing",
     "url": "https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/arizona/Ariz-Admin-Code-SS-R9-8-402",
     "topic": "camps"
    },
    {
     "label": "A.R.S. §36-883.02 Child care personnel; fingerprints",
     "url": "https://www.azleg.gov/ars/36/00883-02.htm",
     "topic": "backgroundChecks"
    },
    {
     "label": "A.R.S. §41-1758.07 Level I fingerprint clearance cards",
     "url": "https://www.azleg.gov/ars/41/01758-07.htm",
     "topic": "backgroundChecks"
    },
    {
     "label": "A.R.S. §8-804 DCS central registry checks",
     "url": "https://www.azleg.gov/ars/8/00804.htm",
     "topic": "backgroundChecks"
    },
    {
     "label": "Ariz. Admin. Code R9-5-402 Staff records",
     "url": "https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/arizona/Ariz-Admin-Code-SS-R9-5-402",
     "topic": "backgroundChecks"
    },
    {
     "label": "Ariz. Admin. Code R9-5-516 Medications",
     "url": "https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/arizona/Ariz-Admin-Code-SS-R9-5-516",
     "topic": "medication"
    },
    {
     "label": "A.R.S. §13-3620 Duty to report",
     "url": "https://www.azleg.gov/ars/13/03620.htm",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    },
    {
     "label": "Arizona DCS child abuse hotline",
     "url": "https://dcs.az.gov/report-child-abuse/child-abuse-hotline",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    },
    {
     "label": "Child Welfare Information Gateway: Arizona mandatory reporting",
     "url": "https://www.childwelfare.gov/resources/mandatory-reporting-child-abuse-and-neglect-arizona/",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    }
   ]
  },
  {
   "state_code": "AR",
   "state": "Arkansas",
   "checked": "October 2026",
   "page_url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/arkansas",
   "child_care": {
    "agency": "Arkansas Department of Education, Office of Early Childhood (OEC), Child Care Licensing Unit",
    "agency_url": "https://dese.ade.arkansas.gov/Offices/office-of-early-childhood/child-care-licensing",
    "licensing": "Child care centers caring for six or more children from more than one family, licensed family homes (6 to 16 children) and out-of-school-time (OST) facilities serving only school-age children must be licensed by OEC; homes with fewer children can register. A program open more than 5 hours in any 24-hour period or more than 10 hours a week counts as a child care center.",
    "school_age_exemption": "Programs open no more than 5 hours a day or 10 hours a week, and programs that run no more than three weeks a year (such as summer Bible schools and camps), don't need a license. Recreational programs where children arrive and leave on their own for scheduled classes, practices, games or meetings are exempt, as are schools providing short before/after-school care (up to 20 hours a week) for their own K-12 students; church-run programs can apply for a church-operated exemption but must still meet the standards.",
    "ratio_rule": "20 CAR § 1025-401 (child care centers); 20 CAR § 1027-301 (out-of-school-time facilities, 1:18)",
    "ratios": [
     {
      "ages": "3 years (2½ to 3 years)",
      "children_per_adult": 12,
      "max_group": 24
     },
     {
      "ages": "4 years",
      "children_per_adult": 15,
      "max_group": 30
     },
     {
      "ages": "5 years to kindergarten",
      "children_per_adult": 18,
      "max_group": 36
     },
     {
      "ages": "Kindergarten and above (school-age)",
      "children_per_adult": 18,
      "max_group": 36
     }
    ],
    "ratio_3_year_olds": 12,
    "ratio_4_year_olds": 15,
    "ratio_school_age": 18,
    "max_group_school_age": 36,
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/arkansas#licensing",
    "ratios_url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/arkansas#ratios"
   },
   "camps": {
    "camp_license": "partly",
    "agency": "Arkansas Department of Education, Office of Early Childhood (child care licensing, which covers summer day camps)",
    "agency_url": "https://dese.ade.arkansas.gov/Offices/office-of-early-childhood/child-care-licensing",
    "summary": "Summer day camps for school-age children are out-of-school-time programs and need an OEC child care license, which includes specific day camp rules, unless the camp runs no more than three weeks a year, stays under 5 hours a day and 10 hours a week, or is a drop-in recreational program. We found no separate state license for overnight (resident) camps in the Arkansas Department of Health's rules.",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/arkansas#camps"
   },
   "background_checks": {
    "summary": "Owners, staff, and volunteers or others with routine contact with children need an Arkansas Child Maltreatment Central Registry check before starting and every 2 years, plus an Arkansas State Police fingerprint check (including the state sex offender registry) and an FBI fingerprint check before starting and every 5 years; a National Sex Offender Registry check is also run, and anyone who lived in another state in the past 5 years is checked there too. New staff can start only after a satisfactory state police result and must be supervised by fully cleared staff until all checks are back.",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/arkansas#background-checks"
   },
   "medication": {
    "summary": "Medicine may be given only with signed parent permission listing the date, drug name, dose and time, how long to give it and the reason; it must be in the original child-resistant container, unexpired and labeled with the child's name, and never given above the label dose. Medicines are kept locked, the staff member who gives a dose initials the permission slip and records date, time and dose, children with special health needs need a care plan, and staff orientation covers medication administration.",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/arkansas#medication"
   },
   "mandated_reporting": {
    "everyone_must_report": false,
    "summary": "A long list of mandated reporters includes child care and day care workers, school employees, coaches and directors of athletic and non-athletic organizations, clergy, health care workers, and people working for nonprofit charitable organizations. They must immediately notify the Child Abuse Hotline when they have reasonable cause to suspect maltreatment (Ark. Code § 12-18-402); licensed child care owners, staff and volunteers are named as mandated reporters in the licensing rules.",
    "hotline": "1-800-482-5964 (Arkansas Child Abuse Hotline); non-emergency online reports at mandatedreporter.arkansas.gov",
    "hotline_url": "https://humanservices.arkansas.gov/divisions-shared-services/children-family-services/how-to-report-child-abuse-neglect/",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/arkansas#reporting"
   },
   "unverified": [
    "Arkansas's mandated reporter list comes from the Child Welfare Information Gateway summary (current through May 2023); the statute text (Ark. Code § 12-18-402) was not checked on an official code site, so later additions are not confirmed. The CWIG summary lists coaches and directors of athletic and non-athletic organizations within the school-employee group, so whether non-school youth sports coaches are covered is not confirmed.",
    "No state license or permit for overnight (resident) youth camps was found in the Arkansas Department of Health's rules in the Code of Arkansas Rules; Not confirmed whether any other agency permits them.",
    "The licensing manuals posted by OEC are dated 2020 and still carry the former DHS division name; the ratios match the codified rules in the Code of Arkansas Rules (20 CAR pt. 1025 and pt. 1027).",
    "Medication logging and locked storage details are from the 2020 PDF; the codified 20 CAR § 1025-1201 text was confirmed for the permission and container rules only."
   ],
   "sources": [
    {
     "label": "OEC Child Care Licensing",
     "url": "https://dese.ade.arkansas.gov/Offices/office-of-early-childhood/child-care-licensing",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "20 CAR § 1025-401 Staff-to-child ratio (Code of Arkansas Rules)",
     "url": "https://codeofarrules.arkansas.gov/Rules/Rule?levelType=section&titleID=20&chapterID=127&subChapterID=169&partID=569&subPartID=7808&sectionID=51232",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "20 CAR § 1027-101 OST definitions and license exemptions",
     "url": "https://codeofarrules.arkansas.gov/Rules/Rule?levelType=section&titleID=20&chapterID=127&subChapterID=169&partID=571&subPartID=5634&sectionID=36449",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "20 CAR § 1027-301 OST staff-to-participant ratio",
     "url": "https://codeofarrules.arkansas.gov/Rules/Rule?levelType=section&titleID=20&chapterID=127&subChapterID=169&partID=571&subPartID=5636&sectionID=36461",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "20 CAR § 1025-207 Church-operated exemptions",
     "url": "https://codeofarrules.arkansas.gov/Rules/Rule?levelType=section&titleID=20&chapterID=127&subChapterID=169&partID=569&subPartID=7806&sectionID=51227",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "Minimum Licensing Requirements for Out-of-School Time Facilities (PDF)",
     "url": "https://dese.ade.arkansas.gov/Files/2020-OST-Clean-Copy_20230506120357.pdf",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "20 CAR § 1025-209 Child Maltreatment Central Registry checks",
     "url": "https://codeofarrules.arkansas.gov/Rules/Rule?levelType=section&titleID=20&chapterID=127&subChapterID=169&partID=569&subPartID=7806&sectionID=51229",
     "topic": "backgroundChecks"
    },
    {
     "label": "20 CAR § 1025-210 FBI and State Police criminal records checks",
     "url": "https://codeofarrules.arkansas.gov/Rules/Rule?levelType=section&titleID=20&chapterID=127&subChapterID=169&partID=569&subPartID=7806&sectionID=51230",
     "topic": "backgroundChecks"
    },
    {
     "label": "20 CAR § 1025-1201 General health requirements (medication)",
     "url": "https://codeofarrules.arkansas.gov/Rules/Rule?levelType=section&titleID=20&chapterID=127&subChapterID=169&partID=569&subPartID=7816&sectionID=51263",
     "topic": "medication"
    },
    {
     "label": "Minimum Licensing Requirements for Child Care Centers (PDF)",
     "url": "https://dese.ade.arkansas.gov/Files/2020-CCC-Clean-Copy_20230506115600.pdf",
     "topic": "medication"
    },
    {
     "label": "Arkansas DHS: How to report child abuse and neglect",
     "url": "https://humanservices.arkansas.gov/divisions-shared-services/children-family-services/how-to-report-child-abuse-neglect/",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    },
    {
     "label": "Child Welfare Information Gateway: Arkansas mandatory reporting (May 2023)",
     "url": "https://www.childwelfare.gov/resources/mandatory-reporting-child-abuse-and-neglect-arkansas/",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    },
    {
     "label": "20 CAR § 1025-201 (child care staff are mandated reporters; hotline)",
     "url": "https://codeofarrules.arkansas.gov/Rules/Rule?levelType=section&titleID=20&chapterID=127&subChapterID=169&partID=569&subPartID=7806&sectionID=51221",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    }
   ]
  },
  {
   "state_code": "CA",
   "state": "California",
   "checked": "October 2026",
   "page_url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/california",
   "child_care": {
    "agency": "California Department of Social Services (CDSS), Community Care Licensing Division, Child Care Licensing Program",
    "agency_url": "https://www.cdss.ca.gov/inforesources/child-care-licensing",
    "licensing": "Child care centers (including infant centers, preschool programs and school-age child care centers) and family child care homes must be licensed by CDSS under Title 22, Division 12 of the California Code of Regulations. A school-age child care center is any center, of any size, that provides less-than-24-hour care to school-age children in a group.",
    "school_age_exemption": "Before- and after-school programs run by a public or private school with its own qualified teachers are exempt, but an outside group running a program on a school site needs a license (22 CCR §101158). CDSS also lists exemptions from Health and Safety Code §1596.792, including public recreation programs run by the state, a city, county, special district or school district outside school hours for under 16 hours a week or 12 weeks or less a year, recreation programs run by groups like Scouts, Boys and Girls Clubs or Camp Fire, programs open one day a week for four hours or less, and classroom-style instructional programs during school breaks totaling 30 days or less for school-age children.",
    "ratio_rule": "22 CCR §101216.3 (preschool-age); 22 CCR §101516.5 (school-age child care centers)",
    "ratios": [
     {
      "ages": "3 years (preschool-age)",
      "children_per_adult": 12,
      "max_group": null
     },
     {
      "ages": "4 years (preschool-age)",
      "children_per_adult": 12,
      "max_group": null
     },
     {
      "ages": "5 years (preschool-age, not in a school-age program)",
      "children_per_adult": 12,
      "max_group": null
     },
     {
      "ages": "School-age (school-age child care center)",
      "children_per_adult": 14,
      "max_group": null
     }
    ],
    "ratio_3_year_olds": 12,
    "ratio_4_year_olds": 12,
    "ratio_school_age": 14,
    "max_group_school_age": null,
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/california#licensing",
    "ratios_url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/california#ratios"
   },
   "camps": {
    "camp_license": "partly",
    "agency": "Local health officer (city or county environmental health), under California Department of Public Health organized camp standards",
    "agency_url": null,
    "summary": "Organized camps (as defined in Health and Safety Code §18897) must send written notice to the local health officer at least 30 days before operating each year and meet Title 17 standards, including a camp director at least 25 years old with two seasons of camp supervisory experience, at least 1 counselor (18+ or a high school graduate) per 10 campers under 16, and a full-time health supervisor (17 CCR §30700-30753). Day programs that care for children may need a CDSS child care license unless they fit an exemption such as the public recreation or Scouts/Boys and Girls Clubs-type recreation exemptions.",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/california#camps"
   },
   "background_checks": {
    "summary": "Licensed child care staff, and most volunteers, need a criminal record clearance from both the California DOJ and the FBI (Live Scan fingerprints) plus a Child Abuse Central Index check before they work or are present in the facility; DOJ then sends CDSS any later arrests or child abuse reports. A clearance stays active while the person is linked to a licensed facility and lapses after 3 years without one. At organized camps, the director and all counselors need a satisfactory California DOJ criminal history check or a National Sex Offender Public Registry check, plus a voluntary disclosure statement, before any unsupervised contact with campers (17 CCR §30751).",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/california#background-checks"
   },
   "medication": {
    "summary": "If a center chooses to give medication, it needs written approval and instructions from the parent for each prescription and over-the-counter medicine, and must follow the pharmacy or product label. Medicines are stored out of children's reach with unaltered labels, marked with the child's name and date; the center must keep a written plan to record each dose and tell parents daily, and return unused medicine. At organized camps, a medical logbook records every dose, and camper medicine stays in its original labeled container (or comes with written instructions) and is locked up when unattended.",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/california#medication"
   },
   "mandated_reporting": {
    "everyone_must_report": false,
    "summary": "Mandated reporters include child care administrators and employees, administrators and employees of day camps, youth centers and youth recreation programs, school staff and school athletic coaches, and HR staff at businesses that employ minors. They must report immediately by phone to the county child welfare agency or police/sheriff and send a written report within 36 hours (Penal Code §§11165.7, 11166); licensed child care staff must take mandated reporter training within 90 days of hire and every 2 years.",
    "hotline": "No single statewide hotline; call the county Child Protective Services 24-hour line or local police/sheriff",
    "hotline_url": "https://www.cdss.ca.gov/Reporting/Report-Abuse/Report-Child-Abuse",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/california#reporting"
   },
   "unverified": [
    "The California Legislature's code site (leginfo) blocked automated access, so Health and Safety Code §1596.792 (license exemptions) and §18897 (organized camp definition) were not read directly; exemptions come from CDSS's Title 22 manual and the Cornell LII copy of 22 CCR, which may lag recent statute changes.",
    "Whether a typical private summer day camp needs a CDSS child care license depends on the exemptions in HSC §1596.792; not confirmed for camps that don't fit the listed exemptions.",
    "California law (AB 506, 2021; Business and Professions Code §18975) is reported to require youth service organizations, such as youth sports leagues, to Live Scan staff and regular volunteers and train them as mandated reporters; not confirmed from an official source in this check.",
    "No California Department of Public Health web page for organized camps could be located (agencyUrl left null); the requirements are confirmed from Title 17 regulations. Many counties also issue their own organized camp permits; not confirmed statewide.",
    "Penal Code reporting deadlines come from Child Welfare Information Gateway summaries (2021 and 2023), not the statute text."
   ],
   "sources": [
    {
     "label": "CDSS Child Care Licensing",
     "url": "https://www.cdss.ca.gov/inforesources/child-care-licensing",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "22 CCR §101216.3 Teacher-child ratio",
     "url": "https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/california/22-CCR-101216.3",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "22 CCR §101516.5 School-age center ratio",
     "url": "https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/california/22-CCR-101516.5",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "22 CCR §101158 Exemption from licensure",
     "url": "https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/california/22-CCR-101158",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "CDSS Title 22 child care center manual, Articles 1-2 (definitions; exemptions quoting HSC §1596.792)",
     "url": "https://www.cdss.ca.gov/Portals/9/Regs/Man/CCL/1cccman.docx",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "17 CCR §30700 Organized camp definitions",
     "url": "https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/california/17-CCR-30700",
     "topic": "camps"
    },
    {
     "label": "17 CCR §30703 Notice of intention to operate",
     "url": "https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/california/17-CCR-30703",
     "topic": "camps"
    },
    {
     "label": "17 CCR §30750 Health supervision",
     "url": "https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/california/17-CCR-30750",
     "topic": "camps"
    },
    {
     "label": "17 CCR §30751 General and safety supervision",
     "url": "https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/california/17-CCR-30751",
     "topic": "camps"
    },
    {
     "label": "CDSS background check process",
     "url": "https://www.cdss.ca.gov/inforesources/community-care/caregiver-background-check/background-check-process",
     "topic": "backgroundChecks"
    },
    {
     "label": "22 CCR §101170 Criminal record clearance",
     "url": "https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/california/22-CCR-101170",
     "topic": "backgroundChecks"
    },
    {
     "label": "22 CCR §101170.2 Child Abuse Central Index",
     "url": "https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/california/22-CCR-101170.2",
     "topic": "backgroundChecks"
    },
    {
     "label": "22 CCR §101226 Health-related services (medication)",
     "url": "https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/california/22-CCR-101226",
     "topic": "medication"
    },
    {
     "label": "CDSS: Report child abuse (county numbers)",
     "url": "https://www.cdss.ca.gov/Reporting/Report-Abuse/Report-Child-Abuse",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    },
    {
     "label": "Child Welfare Information Gateway: California mandatory reporting (May 2023)",
     "url": "https://www.childwelfare.gov/resources/mandatory-reporting-child-abuse-and-neglect-california/",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    },
    {
     "label": "Child Welfare Information Gateway: California making and screening reports (Nov. 2021)",
     "url": "https://www.childwelfare.gov/resources/making-and-screening-reports-child-abuse-and-neglect-california/",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    }
   ]
  },
  {
   "state_code": "CO",
   "state": "Colorado",
   "checked": "October 2026",
   "page_url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/colorado",
   "child_care": {
    "agency": "Colorado Department of Early Childhood (CDEC), Division of Early Learning, Licensing, and Administration",
    "agency_url": "https://cdec.colorado.gov/",
    "licensing": "CDEC licenses child care centers and school-age child care centers caring for five or more children, family child care homes, children's resident camps and neighborhood youth organizations under 8 CCR 1402-1. School-age child care centers include before- and after-school programs, extended-day programs, day camps and summer camps for ages 5 to 18 that run more than one week a year.",
    "school_age_exemption": "No license is needed for a class in a single skill (one subject, with no naps or other activities), religious instruction, short care (3 hours or less) while parents are on site at a church, store or business, occasional care, or programs already licensed and inspected by another state or federal agency (8 CCR 1402-1 §2.112). Nonprofit neighborhood youth organizations serving kindergarten through age 18 follow their own lighter rules (§2.700) instead of school-age center rules. The rules include provisions for school-age centers run by public school districts, and public schools are not on the exemption list.",
    "ratio_rule": "8 CCR 1402-1 §2.217(A)(14)-(15) (child care centers); §2.510(D)-(E) (school-age child care centers)",
    "ratios": [
     {
      "ages": "3 years (3 to 4)",
      "children_per_adult": 10,
      "max_group": 20
     },
     {
      "ages": "4 years (4 to 5)",
      "children_per_adult": 12,
      "max_group": 24
     },
     {
      "ages": "5 years and older (child care center)",
      "children_per_adult": 15,
      "max_group": 30
     },
     {
      "ages": "School-age (school-age child care center, ages 5-18)",
      "children_per_adult": 15,
      "max_group": 30
     }
    ],
    "ratio_3_year_olds": 10,
    "ratio_4_year_olds": 12,
    "ratio_school_age": 15,
    "max_group_school_age": 30,
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/colorado#licensing",
    "ratios_url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/colorado#ratios"
   },
   "camps": {
    "camp_license": "partly",
    "agency": "Colorado Department of Early Childhood (CDEC), Division of Early Learning, Licensing, and Administration",
    "agency_url": "https://cdec.colorado.gov/",
    "summary": "Colorado licenses camps as child care. Children's resident (overnight) camps that run three or more consecutive 24-hour days for five or more children need a CDEC resident camp license (8 CCR 1402-1 §2.400), with counselor ratios of 1:6 for ages 5-7, 1:8 for ages 8-10, 1:10 for ages 11-13 and 1:12 for ages 14 and up. Day camps (at least 4 hours a day, mainly in one season or school breaks, ages 5-18) are licensed as school-age child care centers (§2.500), and seasonal outdoor adventure day camps fall under the resident camp rules.",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/colorado#camps"
   },
   "background_checks": {
    "summary": "Staff who care for or have unsupervised access to children need a CBI and FBI fingerprint check, a National Sex Offender Registry check, a Colorado child abuse and neglect (Trails) check, and criminal, sex offender and abuse registry checks in any other state lived in during the past five years, completed before working alone with children (someone with a cleared CBI or FBI check may work up to 90 days under supervision while the rest finish). FBI and Trails checks are renewed every five years. Resident camps and school-age centers may use out-of-state staff hired for less than 90 days without fingerprints or Trails checks if they sign a no-convictions statement, references are checked, and they are supervised at all times by fully cleared staff.",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/colorado#background-checks"
   },
   "medication": {
    "summary": "Any prescription or over-the-counter medicine needs both a written order from a health care provider with prescriptive authority and written parent consent; home remedies, vitamins and supplements may not be given, while sunscreen and insect repellent need only parent permission. Medicine stays in its original labeled container (OTC labeled with the child's name), is locked up except emergency medicine, is given only by staff with Department-approved medication administration training and current delegation from a child care health consultant, and each dose is recorded in a medication log.",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/colorado#medication"
   },
   "mandated_reporting": {
    "everyone_must_report": false,
    "summary": "Listed reporters include school employees, health and mental health professionals, clergy, CDEC employees, and directors, coaches and athletic staff of private sports programs; the licensing rules also require every child care caregiver and staff member to report. Reports must be made immediately to the county human or social services department, local law enforcement, or the statewide hotline (C.R.S. §19-3-304; 8 CCR 1402-1 §2.126).",
    "hotline": "1-844-CO-4-KIDS (1-844-264-5437)",
    "hotline_url": "https://co4kids.org/",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/colorado#reporting"
   },
   "unverified": [
    "cdec.colorado.gov blocks automated access, so the agency URL is the CDEC home page and could not be load-tested; all rules come from the official Code of Colorado Regulations (8 CCR 1402-1, effective February 14, 2026).",
    "8 CCR 1402-1 §2.112 lists neighborhood youth organizations as not needing a license, while §2.700 calls them 'licensed'; whether they hold a separate license or are simply exempt from child care center licensing is not confirmed.",
    "Whether every before/after-school program run directly by a public school district must be licensed (rather than only those that choose to be) is not confirmed; the statute (C.R.S. §26.5-5-303) was not checked.",
    "The statutory mandated reporter list (C.R.S. §19-3-304) is from the Child Welfare Information Gateway summary (May 2023); the statute text on the official Colorado code site (LexisNexis) was not checked, so later changes are not confirmed."
   ],
   "sources": [
    {
     "label": "8 CCR 1402-1 Child Care Facility Licensing Rules (Code of Colorado Regulations, eff. 2/14/2026)",
     "url": "https://www.sos.state.co.us/CCR/DisplayRule.do?action=ruleinfo&ruleId=3433&deptID=26&agencyID=215&deptName=Department%20of%20Early%20Childhood&agencyName=Division%20of%20Early%20Learning,%20Licensing,%20and%20Administration&seriesNum=8%20CCR%201402-1",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "8 CCR 1402-1 full text (PDF)",
     "url": "https://www.sos.state.co.us/CCR/GenerateRulePdf.do?ruleVersionId=12417&fileName=8%20CCR%201402-1",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "CO4Kids (Colorado Department of Human Services hotline)",
     "url": "https://co4kids.org/",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    },
    {
     "label": "Child Welfare Information Gateway: Colorado mandatory reporting (May 2023)",
     "url": "https://www.childwelfare.gov/resources/mandatory-reporting-child-abuse-and-neglect-colorado/",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    }
   ]
  },
  {
   "state_code": "CT",
   "state": "Connecticut",
   "checked": "October 2026",
   "page_url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/connecticut",
   "child_care": {
    "agency": "Connecticut Office of Early Childhood (OEC), Division of Licensing",
    "agency_url": "https://www.ctoec.org/licensing/",
    "licensing": "A license from OEC is required for child care centers (more than 12 children), group child care homes (7 to 12 children, or a family-home-sized program run outside a private home) and family child care homes (care in a private home on a regular basis). A center or group home that serves school-age children also needs a separate school-age endorsement on its license.",
    "school_age_exemption": "State law exempts programs run by a public school system or a municipal agency, approved or accredited private schools, music/dance/drama/art or single-skill classes of 2 hours or less, scouting, sports-only programs, academic tutoring, programs only for children 13 and older, nationally chartered Boys & Girls Clubs serving only school-age children, and occasional recreational care where parents stay on the premises (CGS §19a-77(b)). An exempt program must tell parents in writing that it is not licensed by OEC (CGS §19a-77(c)).",
    "ratio_rule": "Regs. Conn. State Agencies §19a-79-4a(d)(4)-(5) (preschool); §19a-79-11(d)-(e) (school-age endorsement)",
    "ratios": [
     {
      "ages": "3 years",
      "children_per_adult": 10,
      "max_group": 20
     },
     {
      "ages": "4 years",
      "children_per_adult": 10,
      "max_group": 20
     },
     {
      "ages": "5 years (not yet school age)",
      "children_per_adult": 10,
      "max_group": 20
     },
     {
      "ages": "School-age (5 by Sept. 1, under 13)",
      "children_per_adult": 15,
      "max_group": 30
     }
    ],
    "ratio_3_year_olds": 10,
    "ratio_4_year_olds": 10,
    "ratio_school_age": 15,
    "max_group_school_age": 30,
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/connecticut#licensing",
    "ratios_url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/connecticut#ratios"
   },
   "camps": {
    "camp_license": "yes",
    "agency": "Connecticut Office of Early Childhood (OEC), Division of Licensing",
    "agency_url": "https://www.ctoec.org/licensing/youth-camps/",
    "summary": "Both day camps and resident (overnight) camps need an annual youth camp license from OEC, applied for at least 30 days before opening (CGS §19a-421). The law covers camps serving 5 or more children aged 3 to 15 for 3 or more days a week during school vacations or weekends, or any program advertised as a camp. Exempt: classroom-based summer instruction with no risky activities, public and approved private school summer programs, licensed child care centers, Boys & Girls Club drop-in programs for ages 6 and up, and day camps run by a municipal agency (CGS §19a-420).",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/connecticut#camps"
   },
   "background_checks": {
    "summary": "Child care staff who care for children or have unsupervised access to them need a comprehensive background check: a state criminal history check and an FBI fingerprint check, the CT DCF child abuse registry, sex offender registries, and the criminal, abuse and sex offender registries of any state they lived in during the past 5 years. New hires cannot start work until the conditions of federal rule 45 CFR 98.43(d)(4) are met, and the check is repeated at least every 5 years (CGS §19a-80(c), §10-530(b); Regs. §19a-79-4a(b)-(c)). Youth camps have their own rule: staff aged 18 and older in care roles need a state criminal check (or a search of the Judicial Branch conviction database), the DCF registry, the CT sex offender registry and the national sex offender website, or else a fingerprint check through an OEC-listed provider. New hires may work only under supervision until the check is complete, and the check is repeated every 5 years (CGS §19a-421(b)-(d)).",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/connecticut#background-checks"
   },
   "medication": {
    "summary": "Apart from over-the-counter topical products such as diaper cream (which need written parent permission only), no medicine may be given without a written order from an authorized prescriber and written parent permission. Staff who give medicine must first be trained and approved by a pharmacist, physician, PA, APRN or RN, renewed every 3 years (every year for epinephrine auto-injectors). Medicine must be kept in its original labeled container, and each dose is recorded on the child's individual administration record (Regs. §19a-79-9a).",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/connecticut#medication"
   },
   "mandated_reporting": {
    "everyone_must_report": false,
    "summary": "Mandated reporters are listed professions. The list includes anyone paid to care for children in a licensed child care center or home, school employees, paid youth camp directors and staff aged 21 or older, and coaches or directors of youth athletics and private youth sports aged 18 or older (CGS §17a-101(b)). Report by phone (or electronically, for non-emergencies) within 12 hours, and file a written or electronic report within 48 hours after the oral report (CGS §17a-101b, §17a-101c).",
    "hotline": "1-800-842-2288 (DCF Careline, 24/7; TDD 1-800-624-5518)",
    "hotline_url": "https://portal.ct.gov/dcf/supports-for-children-and-families/child-abuse-and-neglect",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/connecticut#reporting"
   },
   "unverified": [
    "The OEC website (ctoec.org) blocks automated access with a bot check, so the OEC pages were confirmed through Internet Archive snapshots (August 2026 and September 2025), not a live load.",
    "In August 2024 OEC issued an interim policy on school-age group size. We could not open it (bot check). The October 16, 2024 amendment to §19a-79-4a(d)(5)(A) now allows groups of up to 30 for school-age-only field trips, outdoor play and staff-organized activities, which appears to replace that policy.",
    "Regulation text is from the Cornell LII mirror (§19a-79-4a amended October 16, 2024). The official eRegulations portal blocked automated access, so we could not check for amendments made after the mirror's last update.",
    "Youth camp staffing ratios are set in the OEC youth camp regulations, which we did not review."
   ],
   "sources": [
    {
     "label": "CGS §19a-77 (definitions and exemptions) and §19a-80 (license required)",
     "url": "https://www.cga.ct.gov/current/pub/chap_368a.htm",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "Regs. Conn. State Agencies §19a-79-4a (staffing, ratios, group size)",
     "url": "https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/connecticut/Regs-Conn-State-Agencies-SS-19a-79-4a",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "Regs. Conn. State Agencies §19a-79-11 (school-age endorsement)",
     "url": "https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/connecticut/Regs-Conn-State-Agencies-SS-19a-79-11",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "Regs. Conn. State Agencies §19a-79-10 (under-3 endorsement)",
     "url": "https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/connecticut/Regs-Conn-State-Agencies-SS-19a-79-10",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "OEC Licensing",
     "url": "https://www.ctoec.org/licensing/",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "CGS chapter 368r, Youth Camps (§19a-420 to §19a-430)",
     "url": "https://www.cga.ct.gov/current/pub/chap_368r.htm",
     "topic": "camps"
    },
    {
     "label": "2026 Supplement, chapter 368r (2025 amendments)",
     "url": "https://www.cga.ct.gov/2026/sup/chap_368r.htm",
     "topic": "camps"
    },
    {
     "label": "OEC Licensing for Youth Camps",
     "url": "https://www.ctoec.org/licensing/youth-camps/",
     "topic": "camps"
    },
    {
     "label": "CGS §10-530 (5-year rechecks)",
     "url": "https://www.cga.ct.gov/current/pub/chap_184c.htm",
     "topic": "backgroundChecks"
    },
    {
     "label": "Regs. Conn. State Agencies §19a-79-9a (administration of medications)",
     "url": "https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/connecticut/Regs-Conn-State-Agencies-SS-19a-79-9a",
     "topic": "medication"
    },
    {
     "label": "CGS §17a-101 to §17a-101c (mandated reporters, timing)",
     "url": "https://www.cga.ct.gov/current/pub/chap_319a.htm",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    },
    {
     "label": "CT DCF: Report child abuse and neglect",
     "url": "https://portal.ct.gov/dcf/supports-for-children-and-families/child-abuse-and-neglect",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    }
   ]
  },
  {
   "state_code": "DE",
   "state": "Delaware",
   "checked": "October 2026",
   "page_url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/delaware",
   "child_care": {
    "agency": "Delaware Department of Education, Office of Child Care Licensing (OCCL)",
    "agency_url": "https://education.delaware.gov/families/birth-age-5/occl/",
    "licensing": "Anyone who is paid to care for children without a parent present and offers child care to the public needs an OCCL license (14 Del.C. §3002A, §3004A). Early care and education and school-age centers (13 or more children) are licensed under 14 DE Admin. Code 933. This includes before- and after-school care, summer child care programs that are not exempt, and summer camps that receive Purchase of Care funding (933 §4.1). Family and large family child care homes have separate rules.",
    "school_age_exemption": "A center license is not required for: youth camps that serve only school-age children, hold a Division of Public Health camp permit and take no Purchase of Care funding; state-run programs; summer religion classes of 4 weeks or less; brief care while parents stay on site; free drop-in 'open door' programs with no agreement to supervise; school-age care offered only for emergencies or on in-service days, holidays or vacations; lessons or classes only (tutoring, music, dance, sports, art); and public or private schools teaching kindergarten and up (933 §4.3). A program run by another organization inside a school building still needs a license unless the school itself runs it (933 §4.2).",
    "ratio_rule": "14 DE Admin. Code 933 §27.1 (ratio and group size table)",
    "ratios": [
     {
      "ages": "3 years",
      "children_per_adult": 10,
      "max_group": 20
     },
     {
      "ages": "4 years",
      "children_per_adult": 12,
      "max_group": 24
     },
     {
      "ages": "5 years (not yet in kindergarten)",
      "children_per_adult": 12,
      "max_group": 24
     },
     {
      "ages": "School-age (kindergarten and up)",
      "children_per_adult": 15,
      "max_group": 30
     }
    ],
    "ratio_3_year_olds": 10,
    "ratio_4_year_olds": 12,
    "ratio_school_age": 15,
    "max_group_school_age": 30,
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/delaware#licensing",
    "ratios_url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/delaware#ratios"
   },
   "camps": {
    "camp_license": "yes",
    "agency": "Delaware Division of Public Health (camp permit) and Department of Education, Office of Child Care Licensing (camp license or license exemption)",
    "agency_url": "https://firststeps.delaware.gov/recreational_camps/",
    "summary": "Day, residential and other youth camps for 6 or more campers under 18 need an annual permit from the Division of Public Health (16 DE Admin. Code 4467), which also sets counselor-to-camper ratios. A camp for school-age children must also get either license-exempt approval or a youth camp license from OCCL. A license (14 DE Admin. Code 938) is required to receive Purchase of Care funding, and both routes require the DPH permit (14 Del.C. §3003A, amended August 17, 2026 by SB 293). A camp that serves children younger than kindergarten does not qualify for the camp exemption and falls under child care center licensing.",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/delaware#camps"
   },
   "background_checks": {
    "summary": "Before starting work, center staff must be fingerprinted by Delaware State Police for state (SBI) and FBI checks. The center must also have an eligibility or provisional eligibility notice from the DSCYF Criminal History Unit. The full check also covers sex offender and child abuse registries, plus criminal and child abuse checks in every state the person lived in during the past 5 years. Staff are supervised and may not be alone with children until found eligible. Centers must also check the Delaware adult abuse registry. All parts are repeated every 5 years (933 §3.0, §28.3-28.4). Licensed youth camps have the same fingerprint, out-of-state and adult abuse registry requirements for adult staff (938 §22.3-22.4).",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/delaware#background-checks"
   },
   "medication": {
    "summary": "Medicine may be given only by a staff member aged 18 or older who holds an OCCL administration of medication certificate (or by a health professional), and a certified staff member must be on site at all times and on field trips. Each medicine needs written parent permission and must be in its original labeled container. Every dose and every error is logged on a Medication Administration Record, and errors are reported to the parent right away (933 §63).",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/delaware#medication"
   },
   "mandated_reporting": {
    "everyone_must_report": true,
    "summary": "Every person, agency or organization that knows or in good faith suspects child abuse or neglect must report it to the Department of Services for Children, Youth and Their Families (16 Del.C. §903). Call the report line immediately for sexual abuse, a child death, a current injury, a child needing urgent medical or mental health care, or a child left without a caregiver. Other reports can be made by phone or through the online portal (16 Del.C. §904). Licensed centers must call the line immediately if abuse is suspected at the center (933 §19.2.3).",
    "hotline": "1-800-292-9582 (Child Abuse and Neglect Report Line)",
    "hotline_url": "https://kids.delaware.gov/family-services/child-abuse-and-neglect-reporting/",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/delaware#reporting"
   },
   "unverified": [
    "The OCCL website (education.delaware.gov) and the DPH camp pages (dhss.delaware.gov) block automated access. The OCCL page URL was confirmed only through an Internet Archive snapshot from July 2026, and the DPH camp page could not be loaded at all.",
    "Delaware's camp rules are changing. SB 293 (signed August 17, 2026) put the youth camp license and exemption rules into law, lets OCCL treat American Camp Association-accredited camps as meeting license health and safety requirements, and must be implemented by December 31, 2026. A proposed rewrite of the youth camp rules (14 DE Admin. Code 938, 30 DE Reg. 201, October 1, 2026) is open for comment until November 2, 2026.",
    "The statutory definition of a youth camp (May-September, up to 12 weeks, 3 or more hours a day) differs slightly from the current regulation (June-September), so check with OCCL before relying on either.",
    "We could not confirm background check rules for camps that hold only a DPH permit and are license-exempt (no OCCL license).",
    "The center rules (933) were last amended in June 2022. We found no newer amendment, but OCCL may have issued guidance we could not see."
   ],
   "sources": [
    {
     "label": "14 DE Admin. Code 933, DELACARE Regulations for Early Care and Education and School-Age Centers",
     "url": "https://regulations.delaware.gov/AdminCode/title14/900/933.shtml",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "14 Del.C. ch. 30A (child care licensing law)",
     "url": "https://delcode.delaware.gov/title14/c030a/index.html",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "Office of Child Care Licensing",
     "url": "https://education.delaware.gov/families/birth-age-5/occl/",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "16 DE Admin. Code 4467, Sanitation of Recreational Camps (DPH permit)",
     "url": "https://regulations.delaware.gov/AdminCode/title16/Department%20of%20Health%20and%20Social%20Services/Division%20of%20Public%20Health/Health%20Systems%20Protection%20(HSP)/4467.shtml",
     "topic": "camps"
    },
    {
     "label": "14 DE Admin. Code 938, Regulations for Youth Camps (OCCL license)",
     "url": "https://regulations.delaware.gov/AdminCode/title14/900/938.shtml",
     "topic": "camps"
    },
    {
     "label": "SB 293 (153rd GA), signed August 17, 2026",
     "url": "https://legis.delaware.gov/BillDetail/143177",
     "topic": "camps"
    },
    {
     "label": "State of Delaware: Recreational Camps permit",
     "url": "https://firststeps.delaware.gov/recreational_camps/",
     "topic": "camps"
    },
    {
     "label": "16 Del.C. §903-904",
     "url": "https://delcode.delaware.gov/title16/c009/sc01/index.html",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    },
    {
     "label": "DSCYF: Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting",
     "url": "https://kids.delaware.gov/family-services/child-abuse-and-neglect-reporting/",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    }
   ]
  },
  {
   "state_code": "DC",
   "state": "District of Columbia",
   "checked": "October 2026",
   "page_url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/district-of-columbia",
   "child_care": {
    "agency": "Office of the State Superintendent of Education (OSSE), Division of Early Learning, Licensing and Compliance",
    "agency_url": "https://osse.dc.gov/service/licensing-and-compliance",
    "licensing": "Any center, home or other setting that regularly cares for more than two unrelated children needs an OSSE license as a Child Development Facility unless it is exempt. Licensed facility types are child development centers, child development homes, expanded homes and out-of-school-time (OST) programs (5-A DCMR §101.3-101.4).",
    "school_age_exemption": "Facilities that provide only before-school care, only after-school care, or only summer camp to school-age children do not need a license (5-A DCMR §101.5). Also exempt: public, charter and private schools during the full school day, classes or activities such as tutoring, music, dance, sport or art while parents stay on the premises, care during religious services, and care by relatives.",
    "ratio_rule": "5-A DCMR §121.3(a)-(b)",
    "ratios": [
     {
      "ages": "3 years (30-48 months)",
      "children_per_adult": 8,
      "max_group": 16
     },
     {
      "ages": "4 years (48-60 months)",
      "children_per_adult": 10,
      "max_group": 20
     },
     {
      "ages": "5 years (out-of-school-time care, under 6)",
      "children_per_adult": 12,
      "max_group": 24
     },
     {
      "ages": "School-age (6 and up)",
      "children_per_adult": 15,
      "max_group": 30
     }
    ],
    "ratio_3_year_olds": 8,
    "ratio_4_year_olds": 10,
    "ratio_school_age": 15,
    "max_group_school_age": 30,
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/district-of-columbia#licensing",
    "ratios_url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/district-of-columbia#ratios"
   },
   "camps": {
    "camp_license": "no",
    "agency": null,
    "agency_url": null,
    "summary": "We found no separate DC youth camp license. OSSE's child care rules exempt facilities that provide only summer camp to school-age children (5-A DCMR §101.5). A camp that serves children below school age does not fit that exemption and may need a Child Development Facility license from OSSE.",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/district-of-columbia#camps"
   },
   "background_checks": {
    "summary": "Licensed facilities must request an OSSE background check before a person starts work and at least every 3 years after that (5-A DCMR §133.3). The check covers an FBI fingerprint check, the national sex offender registry, and the criminal, sex offender and child abuse and neglect registries for DC and every state lived in during the past 5 years (§132.2). Staff are also subject to a drug and alcohol testing program, and drivers need a traffic records check. A new hire may start once the request is submitted, but only under constant supervision by someone with a qualifying check (§133.5). License-exempt camps have no OSSE background check rule. Programs run by or under contract with the DC government must run FBI and police criminal checks under DC Code §4-1501.01 et seq.",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/district-of-columbia#background-checks"
   },
   "medication": {
    "summary": "Before any medicine is given (other than emergency first aid), the facility needs a signed parent authorization form, approval of the medicine and dose by a licensed health care practitioner, and a staff member who has completed approved medication training or is a nurse or certified medication technician. Prescription medicine needs a pharmacy label, and the child must already have had at least one dose at home. All medicine stays in its original container and is labeled with the child's name, and every dose goes in the medication log. Parent-supplied sunscreen, diaper cream and insect repellent need written parent consent only (5-A DCMR §153).",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/district-of-columbia#medication"
   },
   "mandated_reporting": {
    "everyone_must_report": false,
    "summary": "Mandatory reporters are listed professions. The list includes day care workers, teachers, school officials, athletic coaches, Department of Parks and Recreation employees, social services workers and health professionals (DC Code §4-1321.02). They must make an oral report immediately to the Child and Family Services Agency or the Metropolitan Police Department, and a written report if asked (§4-1321.03). Non-emergency reports can also be filed through CFSA's online mandated reporter portal.",
    "hotline": "(202) 671-SAFE / (202) 671-7233 (CFSA, 24/7)",
    "hotline_url": "https://cfsa.dc.gov/service/report-child-abuse-and-neglect",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/district-of-columbia#reporting"
   },
   "unverified": [
    "We found no DC law or rule that licenses youth camps, but we cannot rule one out. Camps may still need a general business license from the Department of Licensing and Consumer Protection; we did not check this.",
    "The ratio, background check and medication sections (5-A DCMR §121, §132-133, §153) are listed in the DC Register as last finalized December 2, 2016. OSSE adopted emergency rules in December 2023 and proposed broader changes in May 2024. Those proposals would keep preschool and school-age ratios the same, move the 24-30 month toddler ratio from 1:4 to 1:6, and recheck the child abuse registry every 5 years instead of 3. Only the educator-qualification changes were finalized (August 1, 2025), so the rest may still change.",
    "The rule exempts programs offering 'only before school care, only after school care, or only summer camp'. It is unclear whether a program offering both before- and after-school care is exempt, so check with OSSE."
   ],
   "sources": [
    {
     "label": "OSSE Licensing and Compliance (includes exemption list)",
     "url": "https://osse.dc.gov/service/licensing-and-compliance",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "5-A DCMR §121, Adult-to-Child Ratios and Group Size (DC Register)",
     "url": "https://www.dcregs.dc.gov/Common/DCMR/SectionList.aspx?SectionNumber=5-A121",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "5-A DCMR §101, Applicability and exemptions (DC Register)",
     "url": "https://www.dcregs.dc.gov/Common/DCMR/SectionList.aspx?SectionNumber=5-A101",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "OSSE Final Rulemaking, Licensing of Child Development Facilities (Dec. 2016, full text)",
     "url": "https://osse.dc.gov/sites/default/files/dc/sites/osse/publication/attachments/Final%20Rulemaking%20for%20the%20Licensing%20of%20Child%20Development%20Facilities.pdf",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "5-A DCMR §132-133 (DC Register)",
     "url": "https://www.dcregs.dc.gov/Common/DCMR/SectionList.aspx?SectionNumber=5-A133",
     "topic": "backgroundChecks"
    },
    {
     "label": "DC Code §4-1501.02 (covered child or youth services providers)",
     "url": "https://code.dccouncil.gov/us/dc/council/code/sections/4-1501.02",
     "topic": "backgroundChecks"
    },
    {
     "label": "5-A DCMR §153, Medication Administration and Storage (DC Register)",
     "url": "https://www.dcregs.dc.gov/Common/DCMR/SectionList.aspx?SectionNumber=5-A153",
     "topic": "medication"
    },
    {
     "label": "DC Code §4-1321.02 (mandatory reporters)",
     "url": "https://code.dccouncil.gov/us/dc/council/code/sections/4-1321.02",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    },
    {
     "label": "DC Code §4-1321.03 (timing and content of reports)",
     "url": "https://code.dccouncil.gov/us/dc/council/code/sections/4-1321.03",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    },
    {
     "label": "CFSA: Report Child Abuse and Neglect",
     "url": "https://cfsa.dc.gov/service/report-child-abuse-and-neglect",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    }
   ]
  },
  {
   "state_code": "FL",
   "state": "Florida",
   "checked": "October 2026",
   "page_url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/florida",
   "child_care": {
    "agency": "Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF), Child Care Regulation. Broward, Palm Beach, Pinellas and Sarasota counties license through their own local licensing agencies.",
    "agency_url": "https://www.myflfamilies.com/services/child-family/child-care/about-child-care-licensure",
    "licensing": "A license is required for any child care center or arrangement caring for more than five unrelated children for pay (s. 402.302(2), F.S.), and for family and large family child care homes. School-age child care programs need their own school-age license under Rule 65C-22.008, F.A.C., unless exempt.",
    "school_age_exemption": "Public and nonpublic schools' own programs for kindergarten and up are not child care (s. 402.3025, F.S.). Summer day camps, residential summer camps and vacation Bible schools are also excluded (s. 402.302(2)). A school-age program needs no license if it is (a) on a school site, run by the school or under a formal contract with it, and serving only that school's students; (b) a single-purpose class such as tutoring, karate or a sport, limited to 2 hours a day (3 for multi-subject tutoring); (c) an open-access drop-in program under 4 hours a day where children come and go freely; (d) run by a certified national youth membership organization that notifies DCF each year; or (e) only for grades 6 and up. Exempt programs must still meet background screening rules and file an attestation with DCF (Rule 65C-22.008(3)-(4), F.A.C.).",
    "ratio_rule": "s. 402.305(4), F.S.; Rule 65C-22.001(6), F.A.C. (Child Care Facility Handbook, Dec. 2025); Rule 65C-22.008(5), F.A.C. (School-Age Child Care Facility Handbook, Dec. 2025)",
    "ratios": [
     {
      "ages": "3 years",
      "children_per_adult": 15,
      "max_group": null
     },
     {
      "ages": "4 years",
      "children_per_adult": 20,
      "max_group": null
     },
     {
      "ages": "5 years",
      "children_per_adult": 25,
      "max_group": null
     },
     {
      "ages": "School-age (5 and up)",
      "children_per_adult": 25,
      "max_group": null
     }
    ],
    "ratio_3_year_olds": 15,
    "ratio_4_year_olds": 20,
    "ratio_school_age": 25,
    "max_group_school_age": null,
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/florida#licensing",
    "ratios_url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/florida#ratios"
   },
   "camps": {
    "camp_license": "no",
    "agency": "Florida Department of Children and Families (background screening only)",
    "agency_url": "https://www.myflfamilies.com/services/child-family/child-care/child-care-providers-and-staff/summer-camp-requirements/",
    "summary": "Florida does not license summer camps; state law forbids DCF from licensing summer day camps and summer 24-hour camps (s. 409.175(6)(l), F.S.), and they are excluded from child care licensing (s. 402.302(2)). Camps for children 5 and older must still put all personnel through Level 2 background screening, and DCF can shut down a camp that refuses. DCF acts on complaints only and does not inspect camps or require staff training. A summer program for children under 5 is not a 'summer camp' under the statute and may need a child care license.",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/florida#camps"
   },
   "background_checks": {
    "summary": "All child care personnel need Level 2 screening under chapter 435, F.S. This means FDLE and FBI fingerprint checks, plus employment history checks, sex offender registries, and child abuse and neglect registries for every state lived in during the past 5 years. If DCF cannot finish within 3 business days, a new hire gets 45-day provisional status and must be directly supervised by screened staff (s. 402.305(2)(a)). Re-screening is every 5 years (Child Care Facility Handbook). Summer camp owners, staff and most volunteers (including those under 18) also need Level 2 screening through the Care Provider Background Screening Clearinghouse. Per DCF, that screening must be done within 60 days before starting and repeated each year unless certain conditions are met. Starting July 1, 2026, private youth sports organizations must run Level 2 screening on every coach (s. 943.0438, F.S.).",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/florida#background-checks"
   },
   "medication": {
    "summary": "Programs do not have to give medicine. If they do, they need a dated, signed parent authorization listing the child, the medicine, and the dose and times. Medicine stays in its original container (prescriptions with the pharmacy label), is stored locked or out of reach, and staff giving it must be trained in proper administration, with that training documented. Each dose is logged with the date, time, amount and the giver's signature, and the log is kept 12 months (Child Care Facility Handbook, Medication section). Sunscreen, diaper cream and insect repellent need not be logged.",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/florida#medication"
   },
   "mandated_reporting": {
    "everyone_must_report": true,
    "summary": "Every person who knows or has reasonable cause to suspect child abuse, abandonment or neglect must report immediately to the Florida Abuse Hotline by phone, in writing or online (s. 39.201(1), F.S.). Professionals such as teachers and day care or child care workers must give their names when reporting.",
    "hotline": "1-800-962-2873 (1-800-96-ABUSE), 24/7",
    "hotline_url": "https://www.myflfamilies.com/services/abuse/abuse-hotline",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/florida#reporting"
   },
   "unverified": [
    "The annual re-screening rule for summer camp staff comes from DCF's Summer Camp Requirements page. We did not find it in the text of s. 409.175, so it may come from a DCF rule we did not review.",
    "The four county licensing agencies (Broward, Palm Beach, Pinellas, Sarasota) may set stricter local standards, which we did not review.",
    "Both handbooks were updated in December 2025 (Rule 65C-22.001 effective September 1, 2026; Rule 65C-22.008 effective April 9, 2026). We read the adopted handbook text, but section numbers were lost in conversion, so the medication rule is cited by section name rather than number.",
    "We could not confirm whether the Department of Health requires a separate sanitation permit for youth camps (our web search budget ran out)."
   ],
   "sources": [
    {
     "label": "s. 402.305, F.S. (2026), licensing standards and ratios",
     "url": "https://www.flsenate.gov/Laws/Statutes/2026/402.305",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "s. 402.302, F.S. (2026), definitions and exclusions",
     "url": "https://www.flsenate.gov/Laws/Statutes/2026/402.302",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "Chapter 65C-22, F.A.C. (Rules 65C-22.001 and 65C-22.008)",
     "url": "https://www.flrules.org/gateway/ChapterHome.asp?Chapter=65C-22",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "Child Care Facility Handbook (Dec. 2025), Ref-19085",
     "url": "https://flrules.org/Gateway/reference.asp?No=Ref-19085",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "School-Age Child Care Facility Handbook (Dec. 2025), Ref-19084",
     "url": "https://flrules.org/Gateway/reference.asp?No=Ref-19084",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "DCF: About Child Care Licensure",
     "url": "https://www.myflfamilies.com/services/child-family/child-care/about-child-care-licensure",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "s. 409.175, F.S. (2026), summer camp definitions and screening",
     "url": "https://www.flsenate.gov/Laws/Statutes/2026/409.175",
     "topic": "camps"
    },
    {
     "label": "DCF: Summer Camp Requirements",
     "url": "https://www.myflfamilies.com/services/child-family/child-care/child-care-providers-and-staff/summer-camp-requirements/",
     "topic": "camps"
    },
    {
     "label": "s. 943.0438, F.S. (2026), youth athletic coaches",
     "url": "https://www.flsenate.gov/Laws/Statutes/2026/943.0438",
     "topic": "backgroundChecks"
    },
    {
     "label": "s. 39.201, F.S. (2026)",
     "url": "https://www.flsenate.gov/Laws/Statutes/2026/39.201",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    },
    {
     "label": "DCF: Florida Abuse Hotline",
     "url": "https://www.myflfamilies.com/services/abuse/abuse-hotline",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    }
   ]
  },
  {
   "state_code": "GA",
   "state": "Georgia",
   "checked": "October 2026",
   "page_url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/georgia",
   "child_care": {
    "agency": "Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning (DECAL), Child Care Services",
    "agency_url": "https://www.decal.ga.gov/CCS/",
    "licensing": "Child care learning centers, meaning any place that cares for seven or more children under 18 for pay for less than 24 hours a day, need a DECAL license (Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. 591-1-1-.02). Family child care learning homes are licensed under separate rules. Every program providing group care must hold a license or an exemption, or complete DECAL's online self-assessment (591-1-1-.46(1)).",
    "school_age_exemption": "Exempt from licensing (591-1-1-.46(1)(c)): programs run by state, county or city government, including public-school before- and after-school programs staffed by school employees and parks and recreation programs; school-age programs run by or affiliated with a certified national youth membership nonprofit; certain private-school programs; programs serving children no more than 4 hours a day (not counting before- and after-school care); and day camps or school-break programs for children 5 and up that run no more than 12 hours a day. Exempt programs must complete DECAL's self-assessment, and some categories must apply for and keep an exemption. They must post a notice that they are not licensed, and parents must sign a form acknowledging it.",
    "ratio_rule": "Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. 591-1-1-.32(1)",
    "ratios": [
     {
      "ages": "3 years",
      "children_per_adult": 15,
      "max_group": 30
     },
     {
      "ages": "4 years",
      "children_per_adult": 18,
      "max_group": 36
     },
     {
      "ages": "5 years",
      "children_per_adult": 20,
      "max_group": 40
     },
     {
      "ages": "School-age (6 and up)",
      "children_per_adult": 25,
      "max_group": 50
     }
    ],
    "ratio_3_year_olds": 15,
    "ratio_4_year_olds": 18,
    "ratio_school_age": 25,
    "max_group_school_age": 50,
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/georgia#licensing",
    "ratios_url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/georgia#ratios"
   },
   "camps": {
    "camp_license": "partly",
    "agency": "Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning (DECAL), exemption process only",
    "agency_url": "https://www.decal.ga.gov/CCS/Exemptions.aspx",
    "summary": "Georgia has no youth camp license. Day camps and school-break programs for children 5 and older that run no more than 12 hours a day are exempt from child care licensing (Category 7, 591-1-1-.46(1)(c)7). They must complete DECAL's online self-assessment and keep a DECAL KOALA account, and camps that take Childcare and Parent Services (CAPS) subsidies must apply for the exemption, meet background check rules and get annual DECAL monitoring visits. A day program serving children under 5 does not fit this exemption and may need a child care license.",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/georgia#camps"
   },
   "background_checks": {
    "summary": "Every director and employee must have a satisfactory DECAL Comprehensive Records Check Determination before being at the center while children are present. That check combines an FBI fingerprint check with sex offender registries and the criminal, sex offender and child abuse and neglect registries of every state lived in during the past 5 years. Provisional employees may start with a satisfactory fingerprint check if supervised at all times. Rechecks are required at least every 5 years, after a 180-day gap in child care work, or after an arrest (591-1-1-.09; O.C.G.A. §20-1A-30 et seq.). Exempt camps and programs must meet these rules only if they receive CAPS subsidy funding (591-1-1-.46(1)(a)8).",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/georgia#background-checks"
   },
   "medication": {
    "summary": "Except for first aid, staff may give prescription or over-the-counter medicine only with specific written authorization from the parent or the child's physician. The authorization lists the child, medicine, dose, dates and times, and is valid for 2 weeks unless a physician orders longer. Medicine must be in its original container labeled with the child's name and stored locked or out of children's reach. Each dose is recorded with date, time, amount, any reaction, and the giver's initials (591-1-1-.20).",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/georgia#medication"
   },
   "mandated_reporting": {
    "everyone_must_report": false,
    "summary": "Mandated reporters are listed in O.C.G.A. §19-7-5(c)(1). The list includes teachers, school staff, child welfare staff and 'child service organization personnel': employees and volunteers of any organization that provides care, education, supervision, coaching or recreation to children. That covers child care, camp, after-school and youth sports staff. Report immediately and no later than 24 hours by phone, online or by fax (§19-7-5(e)). Licensed centers must also tell DECAL within 24 hours or the next work day that a report was made (591-1-1-.29(1)).",
    "hotline": "1-855-GACHILD (1-855-422-4453), 24/7",
    "hotline_url": "https://dfcs.georgia.gov/services/child-abuse-neglect",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/georgia#reporting"
   },
   "unverified": [
    "The DECAL website (decal.ga.gov) blocks automated access. The DECAL Child Care Services and Exemptions pages were confirmed through Internet Archive snapshots (January and May 2026), not a live load.",
    "The text of O.C.G.A. §19-7-5 comes from the Georgia Office of the Child Advocate page, which labels it the 2016 version. We could not reach the official code (LexisNexis) or the Justia mirror (both blocked), so amendments since 2016 are not confirmed.",
    "We did not find any Georgia license or permit for overnight (resident) camps. DECAL covers care of less than 24 hours only. We could not check for Department of Public Health requirements.",
    "We could not confirm the rule history (last amendment dates) for 591-1-1-.32 or .20. The exemption rules (591-1-1-.46) took effect October 1, 2024, according to DECAL."
   ],
   "sources": [
    {
     "label": "Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. ch. 591-1-1, Rules for Child Care Learning Centers (incl. .32 ratios, .46 exemptions)",
     "url": "https://rules.sos.ga.gov/gac/591-1-1",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "DECAL Child Care Services",
     "url": "https://www.decal.ga.gov/CCS/",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "DECAL Exemptions",
     "url": "https://www.decal.ga.gov/CCS/Exemptions.aspx",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "Georgia Office of the Child Advocate: Mandated Reporting (text of O.C.G.A. §19-7-5)",
     "url": "https://oca.georgia.gov/training/mandated-reporting",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    },
    {
     "label": "Georgia DFCS: Child Abuse & Neglect",
     "url": "https://dfcs.georgia.gov/services/child-abuse-neglect",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    }
   ]
  },
  {
   "state_code": "HI",
   "state": "Hawaii",
   "checked": "October 2026",
   "page_url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/hawaii",
   "child_care": {
    "agency": "Hawaii Department of Human Services (DHS), Benefit, Employment and Support Services Division, Child Care Licensing",
    "agency_url": "https://humanservices.hawaii.gov/bessd/child-care-program/child-care-licensing/",
    "licensing": "DHS licenses group child care centers (age 2 and up) and group child care homes (7-12 children), infant and toddler centers (6 weeks to 36 months), and before- and after-school child care facilities (children 4 years 8 months and older enrolled in elementary school). Family child care homes caring for 3-6 unrelated children must register. Under the rules, a 'child care center' includes holiday and summer care for elementary school-age children (HAR §17-892.2-1, §17-896.1-1).",
    "school_age_exemption": "HRS §346-152 exempts, among others: care for less than 6 hours a week; programs licensed or certified by the Department of Education; DOE after-school, weekend and summer recess programs and county programs under HRS §302A-408; programs offering only specialized training or skill development to K-12 students (such as sports, dance, music, language or martial arts); incorporated multiservice organizations or community associations running recreation programs for students through age 17; programs for children 4 and older that run no more than two consecutive weeks in a three-month period; and programs licensed by the Hawaii Council of Private Schools (on application to DHS).",
    "ratio_rule": "HAR §17-892.2-36 (group child care centers); HAR §17-896.1-36 (before and after school child care facilities)",
    "ratios": [
     {
      "ages": "3 years",
      "children_per_adult": 12,
      "max_group": 24
     },
     {
      "ages": "4 years",
      "children_per_adult": 16,
      "max_group": 32
     },
     {
      "ages": "5 years",
      "children_per_adult": 20,
      "max_group": 40
     },
     {
      "ages": "School-age (before/after-school facilities)",
      "children_per_adult": 20,
      "max_group": 40
     }
    ],
    "ratio_3_year_olds": 12,
    "ratio_4_year_olds": 16,
    "ratio_school_age": 20,
    "max_group_school_age": 40,
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/hawaii#licensing",
    "ratios_url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/hawaii#ratios"
   },
   "camps": {
    "camp_license": "no",
    "agency": null,
    "agency_url": null,
    "summary": "We found no separate Hawaii youth camp license. DHS rules count summer care for elementary school-age children as child care, so a summer day program may need a DHS child care license unless it fits an HRS §346-152 exemption. Exemptions include DOE and county summer programs, programs run by incorporated multiservice or community organizations, sports or skill-only programs, and programs of no more than two consecutive weeks in a three-month period.",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/hawaii#camps"
   },
   "background_checks": {
    "summary": "Everyone in a licensed or registered child care facility must consent to DHS background checks before working on site, and again every year by the anniversary of their last consent. The checks are an FBI fingerprint check, a fingerprint-based state criminal check, state and national sex offender registries, the child abuse and neglect registry, the adult abuse perpetrator registry, and employment history (HAR §17-801-4; §17-892.2-3(d)). The rules also apply to 'exempt child care facilities', but how that reaches license-exempt camps is not confirmed. We found no separate camp background check law.",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/hawaii#background-checks"
   },
   "medication": {
    "summary": "Prescription medicine must be in its original container with the pharmacy label showing date filled, directions and the child's name, kept out of children's reach, and returned to parents when no longer used. A parent must sign an authorization. Over-the-counter medicine needs written permission and instructions from the parent or physician (HAR §17-892.2-45; §17-896.1-45).",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/hawaii#medication"
   },
   "mandated_reporting": {
    "everyone_must_report": false,
    "summary": "Mandated reporters are listed professions, including child care providers and employees of licensed or registered child care facilities, school employees, and employees of public or private agencies providing recreational or sports activities (HRS §350-1.1(a)). Report immediately by phone to DHS or the police, then follow up in writing to DHS as soon as possible.",
    "hotline": "808-832-5300 (Oahu, 24/7); 1-888-380-3088 (toll-free from neighbor islands)",
    "hotline_url": "https://humanservices.hawaii.gov/ssd/home/child-welfare-services/",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/hawaii#reporting"
   },
   "unverified": [
    "The Hawaii Legislature website (capitol.hawaii.gov) blocks automated access. HRS §346-152 was read from an Internet Archive snapshot (August 2026) and HRS §350-1.1 from a May 2025 snapshot, so later amendments (including 2025 and 2026 session laws) are not confirmed.",
    "The DHS rule PDFs are scanned images. Ratios, medication and background check text were read by OCR. The numbers were checked against the OCR text but not against a typed official copy.",
    "The rules define 'summer care' but do not say which rule chapter governs a non-exempt summer day program for school-age children. Check with DHS.",
    "We could not confirm whether the Hawaii Department of Health requires any permit for youth camps, including overnight camps."
   ],
   "sources": [
    {
     "label": "DHS Child Care Regulations (links to HAR ch. 17-891.2, 17-892.2, 17-895.1, 17-896.1)",
     "url": "https://humanservices.hawaii.gov/bessd/child-care-program/child-care-licensing/child-care-regulations/",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "HAR ch. 17-892.2, Group Child Care Centers and Group Child Care Homes (eff. June 2024)",
     "url": "https://humanservices.hawaii.gov/bessd/files/2024/09/Licensing-of-Group-Child-Care-Centers-and-Group-Child-Care-Homes-Chapter-17-892.2-6-6-24.pdf",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "HAR ch. 17-896.1, Before and After School Child Care Facilities (eff. April 19, 2024)",
     "url": "https://humanservices.hawaii.gov/bessd/files/2024/09/Licensing-of-Before-and-After-School-Child-Care-Facilities-Chapter-17-896.1-4-11-24.pdf",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "DHS: Exemptions from Child Care Regulation",
     "url": "https://humanservices.hawaii.gov/bessd/child-care-program/child-care-licensing/exemptions-from-child-care-regulation/",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "HRS §346-152, Exclusions; exemptions",
     "url": "https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/hrscurrent/Vol07_Ch0346-0398/HRS0346/HRS_0346-0152.htm",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "HAR §17-801-4, Background checks",
     "url": "https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/hawaii/Haw-Code-R-SS-17-801-4",
     "topic": "backgroundChecks"
    },
    {
     "label": "HAR §17-801-2, Definitions (exempt child care facility)",
     "url": "https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/hawaii/Haw-Code-R-SS-17-801-2",
     "topic": "backgroundChecks"
    },
    {
     "label": "HRS §350-1.1, Reports",
     "url": "https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/hrscurrent/Vol07_Ch0346-0398/HRS0350/HRS_0350-0001_0001.htm",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    },
    {
     "label": "DHS Child Welfare Services (reporting numbers)",
     "url": "https://humanservices.hawaii.gov/ssd/home/child-welfare-services/",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    }
   ]
  },
  {
   "state_code": "ID",
   "state": "Idaho",
   "checked": "October 2026",
   "page_url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/idaho",
   "child_care": {
    "agency": "Idaho Department of Health and Welfare (IDHW), Daycare Licensing",
    "agency_url": "https://healthandwelfare.idaho.gov/providers/child-care-providers/becoming-child-care-provider",
    "licensing": "A state daycare license is required to care for 7 or more children for pay: a group daycare facility (7 to 12 children) or a daycare center (13 or more). Family daycare homes with 6 or fewer children don't need a state license (though anyone caring for 4 or more must pass the state background check), and a city or county with its own daycare ordinance can license providers locally instead (Idaho Code §§39-1102, 39-1108, 39-1114; IDAPA 16.06.03.009, 16.06.03.101).",
    "school_age_exemption": "Idaho's daycare licensing law does not apply to day camps, programs, and religious schools that run less than 12 weeks a year or no more than once a week, to after-school programs for children over 4 or in kindergarten, to school educational programs for children over 4, or to occasional care while parents are in the same building (Idaho Code §39-1103; IDAPA 16.06.03.100.06).",
    "ratio_rule": "Idaho Code §39-1109(4) (amended 2025); IDAPA 16.06.03.300",
    "ratios": [
     {
      "ages": "3 years",
      "children_per_adult": 13,
      "max_group": null
     },
     {
      "ages": "4 years",
      "children_per_adult": 13,
      "max_group": null
     },
     {
      "ages": "5 years",
      "children_per_adult": 25,
      "max_group": null
     },
     {
      "ages": "School-age (6 and up)",
      "children_per_adult": 25,
      "max_group": null
     }
    ],
    "ratio_3_year_olds": 13,
    "ratio_4_year_olds": 13,
    "ratio_school_age": 25,
    "max_group_school_age": null,
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/idaho#licensing",
    "ratios_url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/idaho#ratios"
   },
   "camps": {
    "camp_license": "no",
    "agency": null,
    "agency_url": null,
    "summary": "Idaho has no youth camp license. Overnight children's camps where no child stays 9 or more consecutive weeks a year are exempt from children's residential care licensing (Idaho Code §39-1206), and day camps that run less than 12 weeks a year or no more than once a week are exempt from daycare licensing (Idaho Code §39-1103). A day program for 7 or more children that runs longer may need a daycare license.",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/idaho#camps"
   },
   "background_checks": {
    "summary": "Owners, operators, staff, and anyone 13 or older who has unsupervised contact with children or is regularly on the premises must clear an IDHW enhanced background check: fingerprint-based state and FBI criminal history plus child protection registry checks in every state lived in during the past 5 years. Checks must be renewed at least every 5 years, and 13- to 17-year-olds also need juvenile justice record checks (Idaho Code §39-1105; IDAPA 16.06.03.009; IDAPA 16.05.06). Camps that are exempt from daycare licensing are not covered by these rules, and we found no separate camp check law.",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/idaho#background-checks"
   },
   "medication": {
    "summary": "No one may give a child any medication without authorization from the parent or caretaker, and all medications, refrigerated or not, must be kept in a locked box or otherwise out of children's reach (IDAPA 16.06.03.380.20). The state rule does not set container, log, or staff-training requirements.",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/idaho#medication"
   },
   "mandated_reporting": {
    "everyone_must_report": true,
    "summary": "Any person, including daycare owners, operators, and staff, who has reason to believe a child has been abused, abandoned, or neglected must report it within 24 hours to IDHW or law enforcement; failing to report is a misdemeanor (Idaho Code §16-1605; IDAPA 16.06.03.421).",
    "hotline": "855-552-KIDS (5437) statewide; 208-334-KIDS (5437) in the Treasure Valley",
    "hotline_url": "https://healthandwelfare.idaho.gov/services-programs/children-families-older-adults/child-and-family-services-and-foster-care-3",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/idaho#reporting"
   },
   "unverified": [
    "The Idaho Legislature website (legislature.idaho.gov) refused connections from our checker, so the Idaho Code links could not be load-tested. The statute text (§§39-1102, 39-1103, 39-1105, 39-1108, 39-1109, 39-1206, 16-1605) was read from archived copies of those official pages captured between October 2025 and October 2026 (§39-1109 from October 2026).",
    "Ratio points changed in 2025 (2025 Idaho Sess. Laws ch. 185 and 186). The health districts' child care guidelines posted on IdahoSTARS still show the older values (1.5 points for 2-year-olds, 1 point for ages 3 to 4, 0.5 for ages 5 to 12), so some official guidance is out of date. The statute controls.",
    "IDAPA 16.06.03 text used here (LII mirror) is the version effective July 1, 2024 and may not reflect the 2025 statute changes.",
    "Local licensing: IDHW says cities and counties may adopt their own daycare ordinances (Idaho Code §39-1108), but at least one city (Idaho Falls) has stopped issuing licenses. Which cities still license locally was not confirmed.",
    "A 2026 bill (H0758) to further change daycare licensing was reportedly vetoed in April 2026. Not confirmed (the governor's website was unreachable).",
    "No state rule was found on medication containers, dosing logs, or staff medication training for licensed daycare."
   ],
   "sources": [
    {
     "label": "Idaho Code §39-1109 (safety standards, ratio points)",
     "url": "https://legislature.idaho.gov/statutesrules/idstat/Title39/T39CH11/SECT39-1109/",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "Idaho Code §39-1103 (exemptions)",
     "url": "https://legislature.idaho.gov/statutesrules/idstat/title39/t39ch11/sect39-1103/",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "IDAPA 16.06.03 Daycare Licensing (LII mirror)",
     "url": "https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/idaho/title-IDAPA-16/rule-16.06.03",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "IDAPA 16.06.03.300 Child-staff ratio",
     "url": "https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/idaho/IDAPA-16.06.03.300",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "IDHW: Becoming a child care provider",
     "url": "https://healthandwelfare.idaho.gov/providers/child-care-providers/becoming-child-care-provider",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "Idaho Code §39-1206 (children's camps)",
     "url": "https://legislature.idaho.gov/statutesrules/idstat/Title39/T39CH12/SECT39-1206/",
     "topic": "camps"
    },
    {
     "label": "IDAPA 16.06.03.100 (exemptions)",
     "url": "https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/idaho/IDAPA-16.06.03.100",
     "topic": "camps"
    },
    {
     "label": "IDAPA 16.06.03.009 Background check requirements",
     "url": "https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/idaho/IDAPA-16.06.03.009",
     "topic": "backgroundChecks"
    },
    {
     "label": "IDAPA 16.05.06.010 Definitions (enhanced clearance)",
     "url": "https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/idaho/IDAPA-16.05.06.010",
     "topic": "backgroundChecks"
    },
    {
     "label": "Idaho Code §39-1105 (criminal history checks)",
     "url": "https://legislature.idaho.gov/statutesrules/idstat/title39/t39ch11/sect39-1105/",
     "topic": "backgroundChecks"
    },
    {
     "label": "IDHW Background Check Unit",
     "url": "https://healthandwelfare.idaho.gov/bcu",
     "topic": "backgroundChecks"
    },
    {
     "label": "IDAPA 16.06.03.380 Health standards (item 20, Medication)",
     "url": "https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/idaho/IDAPA-16.06.03.380",
     "topic": "medication"
    },
    {
     "label": "IDHW: Reporting neglect, abuse, or abandonment",
     "url": "https://healthandwelfare.idaho.gov/services-programs/children-families-older-adults/child-and-family-services-and-foster-care-3",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    },
    {
     "label": "IDAPA 16.06.03.421 Mandatory reporting",
     "url": "https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/idaho/IDAPA-16.06.03.421",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    },
    {
     "label": "Idaho Code §16-1605",
     "url": "https://legislature.idaho.gov/statutesrules/idstat/title16/t16ch16/sect16-1605/",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    },
    {
     "label": "Child Welfare Information Gateway: Mandatory Reporting of Child Abuse and Neglect",
     "url": "https://www.childwelfare.gov/resources/mandatory-reporting-child-abuse-and-neglect/",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    }
   ]
  },
  {
   "state_code": "IL",
   "state": "Illinois",
   "checked": "October 2026",
   "page_url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/illinois",
   "child_care": {
    "agency": "Illinois Department of Early Childhood (IDEC), Child Care Licensing (took over from DCFS on July 1, 2026)",
    "agency_url": "https://idec.illinois.gov/forproviders/licensure.html",
    "licensing": "Day care centers (care for more than 3 children in a facility other than a family home, or more than 8 in a family home) need a state license, and so do day care homes and group day care homes. Homes caring for no more than 3 children, or only children from one household, are exempt (225 ILCS 10/2.09; 89 Ill. Adm. Code 377.3).",
    "school_age_exemption": "No license is needed for programs run by public or private schools, or for out-of-school-time programs serving only kindergarten-age and older children that meet set conditions: IDPH or local health and fire safety standards, ISP/FBI fingerprint, sex offender registry, and CANTS checks for staff and volunteers, and written notice to parents that the program is not licensed. Recreation, athletics, and crafts programs run by civic, charitable, or government groups are also exempt, with park district programs limited to 3.5 hours at a time and 25 hours a week (225 ILCS 10/2.09); a new exemption structure starts July 1, 2027 (July 1, 2028 for park districts) under Public Act 104-0480.",
    "ratio_rule": "89 Ill. Adm. Code 407.190",
    "ratios": [
     {
      "ages": "3 years",
      "children_per_adult": 10,
      "max_group": 20
     },
     {
      "ages": "4 years",
      "children_per_adult": 10,
      "max_group": 20
     },
     {
      "ages": "5 years",
      "children_per_adult": 20,
      "max_group": 20
     },
     {
      "ages": "School-age (6 and up)",
      "children_per_adult": 20,
      "max_group": 30
     }
    ],
    "ratio_3_year_olds": 10,
    "ratio_4_year_olds": 10,
    "ratio_school_age": 20,
    "max_group_school_age": 30,
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/illinois#licensing",
    "ratios_url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/illinois#ratios"
   },
   "camps": {
    "camp_license": "yes",
    "agency": "Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH)",
    "agency_url": "https://dph.illinois.gov/topics-services/environmental-health-protection/youth-camps-campgrounds.html",
    "summary": "IDPH licenses youth camps under the Youth Camp Act (210 ILCS 100): any day or resident camp serving 5 or more children under 18 away from their parents for 3 or more consecutive days, or 5 or more days a year. Apply at least 45 days before opening; licenses expire December 31 and are renewed yearly after inspection of water, sewage, sanitation, food service, and swimming facilities.",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/illinois#camps"
   },
   "background_checks": {
    "summary": "Licensed child care staff, volunteers, and others with access to children need fingerprint-based Illinois State Police and FBI criminal history checks, checks of Illinois' child abuse and neglect tracking system (CANTS) and other states' child protection registries, and the Illinois and national sex offender registries; authorizations are filed at hiring and at each license renewal (89 Ill. Adm. Code 385.20, 385.40). DCFS still processes these checks for IDEC until about July 1, 2027. We found no background check rule for IDPH-licensed youth camps, but license-exempt school-age programs must run the same ISP/FBI, sex offender registry, and CANTS checks (225 ILCS 10/2.09(j)).",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/illinois#background-checks"
   },
   "medication": {
    "summary": "Centers need a written medication policy. Medicine must be in its original container (prescriptions with the full pharmacy label, over-the-counter labeled with the child's name), given only with parent permission by a designated staff member, logged with date, time, dose, and who gave it, and kept locked and out of children's reach; sunscreen, diaper cream, and similar products need written parent approval (89 Ill. Adm. Code 407.360).",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/illinois#medication"
   },
   "mandated_reporting": {
    "everyone_must_report": false,
    "summary": "Listed professionals must report immediately to DCFS when they have reasonable cause to believe a child they know through work may be abused or neglected, including child care and day care center staff, school personnel, and recreation or athletic program staff (325 ILCS 5/4). Anyone else may report.",
    "hotline": "1-800-25-ABUSE (1-800-252-2873)",
    "hotline_url": "https://dcfs.illinois.gov/safe-kids/reporting.html",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/illinois#reporting"
   },
   "unverified": [
    "The Illinois General Assembly website (ilga.gov) refused connections from our checker, so the ILCS links could not be load-tested. Statute text (225 ILCS 10/2.09, 210 ILCS 100, 325 ILCS 5/4) was read from archived copies (captured April to June 2025) of those official pages and may have been amended since; Public Act 104-0480 changes child care terminology (July 1, 2026) and the license-exemption structure (July 1, 2027; July 1, 2028 for park districts).",
    "Part 407 is still published as a DCFS rule under Title 89; IDEC says requirements did not change on July 1, 2026, but the rules may be renumbered or moved.",
    "The 407.190 table (LII mirror) shows one school-age row, 'kindergartners present: 1:20, max 30'. Whether a different limit applies to school-age groups with no kindergartners was not confirmed; IDEC's summary lists '5 years and up = 20:1'.",
    "We found no background check requirement in IDPH's youth camp rules (Recreational Area Code, 77 Ill. Adm. Code 800); not confirmed that none exists elsewhere."
   ],
   "sources": [
    {
     "label": "89 Ill. Adm. Code 407.190 Grouping and staffing (LII mirror)",
     "url": "https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/illinois/Ill-Admin-Code-tit-89-SS-407.190",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "IDEC: Child care licensure (ratios, background checks)",
     "url": "https://idec.illinois.gov/forproviders/licensure.html",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "89 Ill. Adm. Code 377.3 Programs exempt from licensure",
     "url": "https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/illinois/Ill-Admin-Code-tit-89-SS-377.3",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "225 ILCS 10/2.09 (day care center definition and exemptions)",
     "url": "https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/documents/022500100K2.09.htm",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "IDEC transition FAQ (July 2026)",
     "url": "https://idec.illinois.gov/content/dam/soi/en/web/idec/documents/faqs/idec-faqs/Transition%20Update%20Meeting%20FAQ%20Document_07.28.2026%20-%20English.pdf",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "IDPH: Youth camps and campgrounds",
     "url": "https://dph.illinois.gov/topics-services/environmental-health-protection/youth-camps-campgrounds.html",
     "topic": "camps"
    },
    {
     "label": "210 ILCS 100/3.01 (youth camp definition)",
     "url": "https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/documents/021001000K3.01.htm",
     "topic": "camps"
    },
    {
     "label": "210 ILCS 100/5 (license required)",
     "url": "https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/documents/021001000K5.htm",
     "topic": "camps"
    },
    {
     "label": "89 Ill. Adm. Code 385.20 Definitions (background check)",
     "url": "https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/illinois/Ill-Admin-Code-tit-89-SS-385.20",
     "topic": "backgroundChecks"
    },
    {
     "label": "89 Ill. Adm. Code 385.40 Authorization for background checks",
     "url": "https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/illinois/Ill-Admin-Code-tit-89-SS-385.40",
     "topic": "backgroundChecks"
    },
    {
     "label": "89 Ill. Adm. Code 407.360 Medications",
     "url": "https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/illinois/Ill-Admin-Code-tit-89-SS-407.360",
     "topic": "medication"
    },
    {
     "label": "DCFS: Reporting child abuse and neglect",
     "url": "https://dcfs.illinois.gov/safe-kids/reporting.html",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    },
    {
     "label": "DCFS online reporting form",
     "url": "https://childabuse.illinois.gov/",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    },
    {
     "label": "325 ILCS 5/4 (persons required to report)",
     "url": "https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/documents/032500050K4.htm",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    },
    {
     "label": "Child Welfare Information Gateway: Mandatory Reporting of Child Abuse and Neglect",
     "url": "https://www.childwelfare.gov/resources/mandatory-reporting-child-abuse-and-neglect/",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    }
   ]
  },
  {
   "state_code": "IN",
   "state": "Indiana",
   "checked": "October 2026",
   "page_url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/indiana",
   "child_care": {
    "agency": "Indiana Family and Social Services Administration (FSSA), Office of Early Childhood and Out-of-School Learning (OECOSL)",
    "agency_url": "https://www.in.gov/fssa/carefinder/become-a-child-care-provider",
    "licensing": "Child care centers (a nonresidential building where at least one child gets paid care for more than 4 hours a day for 10 consecutive days) and child care homes must be licensed by FSSA; church-run programs may instead register as unlicensed registered child care ministries (IC 12-17.2; 470 IAC 3-4.7).",
    "school_age_exemption": "Programs that meet an exemption in IC 12-17.2-2-8 do not need a license. Since July 1, 2025, programs run by public or private schools on school property for their own students can qualify if they meet health, safety, and fire standards (House Bill 1253), and certain school-age child care programs are listed as exempt (IC 12-17.2-2-8(10)); exempt programs that accept CCDF child care vouchers must still meet state health and safety standards as Legally Licensed Exempt Providers.",
    "ratio_rule": "IC 12-17.2-4-14.5 (in effect December 1, 2025), as posted in FSSA's Licensed Child Care Center ratio chart",
    "ratios": [
     {
      "ages": "3 years",
      "children_per_adult": 11,
      "max_group": 25
     },
     {
      "ages": "4 years",
      "children_per_adult": 13,
      "max_group": 29
     },
     {
      "ages": "5 years",
      "children_per_adult": 17,
      "max_group": 31
     },
     {
      "ages": "School-age (6 and up)",
      "children_per_adult": 20,
      "max_group": 40
     }
    ],
    "ratio_3_year_olds": 11,
    "ratio_4_year_olds": 13,
    "ratio_school_age": 20,
    "max_group_school_age": 40,
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/indiana#licensing",
    "ratios_url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/indiana#ratios"
   },
   "camps": {
    "camp_license": "partly",
    "agency": "Indiana Department of Health (IDOH), Environmental Public Health",
    "agency_url": "https://www.in.gov/health/eph/youth-camps",
    "summary": "IDOH regulates youth camps under 410 IAC 6-7.2, which covers places giving more than 72 continuous hours of outdoor group living to 10 or more children under 18 without a parent (in practice, overnight camps); IDOH inspects these camps and must approve plans before a camp is built or altered. Day camps are not covered by that rule; a day camp may need an FSSA child care license if it meets the child care center definition and no exemption applies.",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/indiana#camps"
   },
   "background_checks": {
    "summary": "Child care staff and volunteers in licensed centers and homes, registered ministries, and exempt providers that take vouchers need a federal and an Indiana fingerprint-based criminal history check (including juvenile history), plus checks of the Indiana Child Protection Index and the Indiana Sex Offender Registry, and out-of-state checks if they lived elsewhere. The fingerprint check is redone every 3 years (or after more than 180 days out of Indiana child care work), and the registry checks every year. Indiana's youth camp rule (410 IAC 6-7.2) has no background check requirement.",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/indiana#background-checks"
   },
   "medication": {
    "summary": "Medicine must be in its original container and given only with written parent permission and, except for a few over-the-counter products named in the center's approved health plan, a written order or prescription from a licensed prescriber. It must be locked up (not in the kitchen or a bathroom), and each dose is recorded with the child's name, medicine, dose, date, time, and caregiver's name; sunscreen, insect repellent, and similar products need written parent approval (470 IAC 3-4.7-88, 3-4.7-40).",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/indiana#medication"
   },
   "mandated_reporting": {
    "everyone_must_report": true,
    "summary": "Indiana requires anyone who suspects a child is being abused or neglected to report it to the DCS hotline or police (IC 31-33-5); child care center staff must report immediately (470 IAC 3-4.7-13).",
    "hotline": "1-800-800-5556",
    "hotline_url": "https://www.in.gov/dcs/hotline",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/indiana#reporting"
   },
   "unverified": [
    "The Indiana Code and Indiana Register websites (iga.in.gov, iar.iga.in.gov) did not load for our checker, so IC 12-17.2-4-14.5, IC 12-17.2-2-8, and IC 31-33-5 were not read directly. Ratio numbers come from FSSA's March 2026 center ratio chart and its October 2025 program matrix.",
    "The full list of licensing exemptions in IC 12-17.2-2-8, including the exact conditions for school-age programs, was not confirmed.",
    "Whether IDOH issues an annual operating permit for youth camps was not confirmed; the rule mentions permits, while IDOH's page describes inspections and construction plan approval.",
    "470 IAC 3-4.7 as published on the LII mirror still shows the pre-2025 ratio chart and TB-testing rules; FSSA says rule updates are in progress.",
    "The statutory reporting deadline (IC 31-33-5) was not read directly; 'immediately' is confirmed only for child care center staff (470 IAC 3-4.7-13)."
   ],
   "sources": [
    {
     "label": "FSSA: Licensed child care center ratio chart (2026)",
     "url": "https://www.in.gov/dA/41fa8175e8/Child-Staff-Ratios-Centers.pdf?language_id=1",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "FSSA: 2025 early childhood legislative and rule changes",
     "url": "https://www.in.gov/fssa/carefinder/early-child-care-and-education-legislative-changes",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "FSSA: Laws, rules and related policies",
     "url": "https://www.in.gov/fssa/carefinder/laws-rules-and-related-policies",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "FSSA: Indiana child care program matrix",
     "url": "https://www.in.gov/dA/e809786e2e/MatrixforIndianaCCProgramJan.pdf?language_id=1",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "470 IAC 3-4.7-48 Child/staff ratios and supervision (LII mirror)",
     "url": "https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/indiana/470-IAC-3-4.7-48",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "IDOH: Youth camps",
     "url": "https://www.in.gov/health/eph/youth-camps",
     "topic": "camps"
    },
    {
     "label": "410 IAC 6-7.2 Youth camps (PDF)",
     "url": "https://www.in.gov/dA/e0d5d9df8d/410_iac_6_7_2.pdf?language_id=1",
     "topic": "camps"
    },
    {
     "label": "FSSA: Background check requirements",
     "url": "https://www.in.gov/fssa/carefinder/background-check-requirements",
     "topic": "backgroundChecks"
    },
    {
     "label": "470 IAC 3-4.7-88 Medication (LII mirror)",
     "url": "https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/indiana/470-IAC-3-4.7-88",
     "topic": "medication"
    },
    {
     "label": "470 IAC 3-4.7-40 Children's medication records (LII mirror)",
     "url": "https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/indiana/470-IAC-3-4.7-40",
     "topic": "medication"
    },
    {
     "label": "Indiana DCS: Child Abuse and Neglect Hotline",
     "url": "https://www.in.gov/dcs/hotline",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    },
    {
     "label": "470 IAC 3-4.7-13 Reporting child abuse or neglect (LII mirror)",
     "url": "https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/indiana/470-IAC-3-4.7-13",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    },
    {
     "label": "Child Welfare Information Gateway: Mandatory Reporting of Child Abuse and Neglect",
     "url": "https://www.childwelfare.gov/resources/mandatory-reporting-child-abuse-and-neglect/",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    }
   ]
  },
  {
   "state_code": "IA",
   "state": "Iowa",
   "checked": "October 2026",
   "page_url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/iowa",
   "child_care": {
    "agency": "Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (Iowa HHS), Child Care Licensing",
    "agency_url": "https://hhs.iowa.gov/programs/programs-and-services/child-care/child-care-licensing",
    "licensing": "A facility giving child care or preschool to 7 or more children must be licensed as a child care center or preschool unless it is registered as a child development home; home-based providers are regulated through child development home registration (Iowa Code §237A.1; 441 IAC 109).",
    "school_age_exemption": "Iowa's definition of child care leaves out school-run instructional programs (prekindergarten and up), recreation or social programs run by a city or other political subdivision for school children 5 and older, after-school or summer-only programs for enrolled students 5 and older that charge only a nominal membership fee or nothing, special activity programs (sports, music, scouting, and similar) meeting under 4 hours a day, nationally accredited camps, and classes under 2 weeks held during school breaks (Iowa Code §237A.1(2)).",
    "ratio_rule": "441 IAC 109.8(2)",
    "ratios": [
     {
      "ages": "3 years",
      "children_per_adult": 10,
      "max_group": null
     },
     {
      "ages": "4 years",
      "children_per_adult": 12,
      "max_group": null
     },
     {
      "ages": "5 years",
      "children_per_adult": 15,
      "max_group": null
     },
     {
      "ages": "School-age (6 and up)",
      "children_per_adult": 15,
      "max_group": null
     }
    ],
    "ratio_3_year_olds": 10,
    "ratio_4_year_olds": 12,
    "ratio_school_age": 15,
    "max_group_school_age": null,
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/iowa#licensing",
    "ratios_url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/iowa#ratios"
   },
   "camps": {
    "camp_license": "no",
    "agency": null,
    "agency_url": null,
    "summary": "Iowa has no state youth camp license; the Iowa Code has no youth camp chapter. Nationally accredited camps are excluded from child care licensing, but a non-accredited day camp serving 7 or more children may need a child care center license unless another exclusion applies, such as a city recreation program for school children or a summer-only program with only a nominal fee (Iowa Code §237A.1).",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/iowa#camps"
   },
   "background_checks": {
    "summary": "Owners, directors, staff, volunteers, and subcontractors with direct responsibility for children or access to a child alone, plus household members 14 and older, need Iowa criminal history, child abuse, and sex offender registry checks before starting, repeated at least every 2 years, and a national FBI fingerprint check repeated every 4 years (441 IAC 109.6(4)). Because Iowa has no camp licensing law, there is no separate camp check requirement.",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/iowa#background-checks"
   },
   "medication": {
    "summary": "Centers must have written procedures for authorizing, storing, giving, and recording all medicines. Only staff over 18 who have completed medication training may give medicine; it must be in the original labeled container (over-the-counter medicine labeled with the child's name) and stored out of reach, each dose is logged, and long-term authorizations can't run longer than the prescription (441 IAC 109.10(1)).",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/iowa#medication"
   },
   "mandated_reporting": {
    "everyone_must_report": false,
    "summary": "Listed professionals must report within 24 hours, including employees and operators of licensed child care centers, registered child development homes, and Head Start programs; school employees 18 and older; and holders of a state coaching authorization. Mandatory reporters must complete state training within 6 months of starting and every 3 years (Iowa Code §232.69).",
    "hotline": "800-362-2178",
    "hotline_url": "https://hhs.iowa.gov/report-abuse-fraud",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/iowa#reporting"
   },
   "unverified": [
    "The 'no youth camp license' finding is based on the Iowa Code chapter list (no youth camp chapter) and the child care exclusion for nationally accredited camps; we found no agency statement confirming it."
   ],
   "sources": [
    {
     "label": "441 IAC 109 Child care centers (rule 109.8 staff ratio)",
     "url": "https://www.legis.iowa.gov/docs/iac/chapter/441.109.pdf",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "Iowa Code §237A.1 Definitions and exclusions",
     "url": "https://www.legis.iowa.gov/docs/code/237A.1.pdf",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "Iowa HHS: Child care licensing",
     "url": "https://hhs.iowa.gov/programs/programs-and-services/child-care/child-care-licensing",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "Iowa Code chapter list",
     "url": "https://www.legis.iowa.gov/law/iowaCode",
     "topic": "camps"
    },
    {
     "label": "Iowa HHS: Report abuse and fraud",
     "url": "https://hhs.iowa.gov/report-abuse-fraud",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    },
    {
     "label": "Iowa HHS: Mandatory reporters",
     "url": "https://hhs.iowa.gov/report-abuse-fraud/mandatory-reporters",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    },
    {
     "label": "Iowa Code §232.69",
     "url": "https://www.legis.iowa.gov/docs/code/232.69.pdf",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    }
   ]
  },
  {
   "state_code": "KS",
   "state": "Kansas",
   "checked": "October 2026",
   "page_url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/kansas",
   "child_care": {
    "agency": "Kansas Office of Early Childhood (KOEC), Child Care Licensing (took over from KDHE on July 1, 2026)",
    "agency_url": "https://www.koec.ks.gov/providers/child-care-licensing",
    "licensing": "Since July 1, 2026, the Kansas Office of Early Childhood licenses every day care facility for children under 16: day care homes, group day care homes, preschools, child care centers (13 or more children, or fewer if licensed as a center), school-age programs, and youth development programs (K.S.A. 75-7707, 75-7708; K.A.R. 28-4-420).",
    "school_age_exemption": "A program serving only school-age children needs a license if 2 or more children attend 12 or more hours a week for more than 2 consecutive weeks. Single-subject classes or activities (a sports league, dance class, martial arts), programs run by a local government or school district for no more than 4 consecutive hours a day or no more than 2 consecutive weeks, and summer instructional camps run by a nonprofit or school are not licensed (K.A.R. 28-4-578; K.S.A. 75-7707).",
    "ratio_rule": "K.A.R. 28-4-428(a)",
    "ratios": [
     {
      "ages": "3 years",
      "children_per_adult": 12,
      "max_group": 24
     },
     {
      "ages": "4 years",
      "children_per_adult": 12,
      "max_group": 24
     },
     {
      "ages": "5 years",
      "children_per_adult": 16,
      "max_group": 32
     },
     {
      "ages": "School-age (6 and up)",
      "children_per_adult": 16,
      "max_group": 32
     }
    ],
    "ratio_3_year_olds": 12,
    "ratio_4_year_olds": 12,
    "ratio_school_age": 16,
    "max_group_school_age": 32,
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/kansas#licensing",
    "ratios_url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/kansas#ratios"
   },
   "camps": {
    "camp_license": "partly",
    "agency": "Kansas Office of Early Childhood (licenses day camps as school-age programs)",
    "agency_url": "https://www.koec.ks.gov/providers/child-care-licensing",
    "summary": "We found no separate Kansas youth camp license, but day camps for school-age children are licensed as school-age programs, with specific rules for outdoor summer camps and mobile summer programs (K.A.R. 28-4-586), when children attend 12 or more hours a week for more than 2 weeks. Summer instructional camps run by a nonprofit, school, or nonpublic school are exempt (K.S.A. 75-7707). How overnight (resident) camps are regulated was not confirmed.",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/kansas#camps"
   },
   "background_checks": {
    "summary": "Applicants, licensees, center employees, volunteers counted in the ratio, and anyone with unsupervised access to children need fingerprint-based Kansas Bureau of Investigation and FBI checks covering every state lived in during the past 5 years; others regularly in the facility need name-based KBI and Kansas DCF checks. Checks are submitted with each initial and renewal license application and before anyone starts, and people on child abuse and neglect or sex offender registries are barred (K.A.R. 28-4-125; K.S.A. 75-7719). Licensed school-age programs and summer camps follow the same process (K.A.R. 28-4-584).",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/kansas#background-checks"
   },
   "medication": {
    "summary": "Staff must complete medication administration training before giving any medicine and need written parent permission; medicine must be in its original container (pharmacy label for prescriptions, child's first and last name on over-the-counter medicine), given as the label directs, documented on the state form in the child's file, and kept in locked storage (K.A.R. 28-4-132(i), 28-4-423).",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/kansas#medication"
   },
   "mandated_reporting": {
    "everyone_must_report": false,
    "summary": "Listed professionals must report promptly when they suspect abuse or neglect, including licensed child care providers and their staff, teachers and other school employees, and medical, mental health, and law enforcement workers (K.S.A. 38-2223). Child care center staff must report to the Kansas Department for Children and Families (DCF) within 24 hours (K.A.R. 28-4-430).",
    "hotline": null,
    "hotline_url": null,
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/kansas#reporting"
   },
   "unverified": [
    "Hotline not confirmed: the Kansas DCF website (dcf.ks.gov) was unreachable during this check. DCF's Kansas Protection Report Center is widely published as 1-800-922-5330; verify on dcf.ks.gov before publishing.",
    "The Kansas Office of Early Childhood website (koec.ks.gov) returned 'Access Denied' to our checker, so the agencyUrl could not be load-tested; KDHE's old licensing page (https://www.kdhe.ks.gov/280/Child-Care-Licensing) points to it.",
    "The K.A.R. 28-4 rules were adopted by KDHE. Under K.S.A. 75-7706 they continue as Office of Early Childhood rules until changed, so citations may be renumbered.",
    "Definition conflict: K.A.R. 28-4-420 starts 'school-age' at kindergarten eligibility, while K.S.A. 75-7708 (2025) defines school-age as at least 6 by September 1. Which one governs ratios for 5-year-olds after the transfer was not confirmed.",
    "Licensing of overnight (resident) youth camps in Kansas was not confirmed.",
    "K.S.A. 38-2223 still refers to child care providers 'licensed by the secretary of health and environment' (wording from before the transfer to the Office of Early Childhood)."
   ],
   "sources": [
    {
     "label": "K.A.R. 28-4-428 Staff requirements (ratio table, LII mirror)",
     "url": "https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/kansas/K-A-R-28-4-428",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "K.A.R. 28-4-420 Definitions",
     "url": "https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/kansas/K-A-R-28-4-420",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "K.A.R. 28-4-578 School-age program licensure and exclusions",
     "url": "https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/kansas/K-A-R-28-4-578",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "K.S.A. 75-7707 License required; exemptions",
     "url": "https://www.ksrevisor.gov/statutes/chapters/ch75/075_077_0007.html",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "K.S.A. 75-7706 Transfer of rules to the Office of Early Childhood",
     "url": "https://www.ksrevisor.gov/statutes/chapters/ch75/075_077_0006.html",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "Kansas Office of Early Childhood: Child care licensing",
     "url": "https://www.koec.ks.gov/providers/child-care-licensing",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "K.A.R. 28-4-586 Outdoor summer camps and mobile summer programs",
     "url": "https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/kansas/K-A-R-28-4-586",
     "topic": "camps"
    },
    {
     "label": "K.A.R. 28-4-125 Background checks",
     "url": "https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/kansas/K-A-R-28-4-125",
     "topic": "backgroundChecks"
    },
    {
     "label": "K.A.R. 28-4-584 Background checks (school-age programs)",
     "url": "https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/kansas/K-A-R-28-4-584",
     "topic": "backgroundChecks"
    },
    {
     "label": "K.S.A. 75-7719 Prohibited persons; fingerprinting",
     "url": "https://www.ksrevisor.gov/statutes/chapters/ch75/075_077_0019.html",
     "topic": "backgroundChecks"
    },
    {
     "label": "K.A.R. 28-4-132 Child care practices (medication administration)",
     "url": "https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/kansas/K-A-R-28-4-132",
     "topic": "medication"
    },
    {
     "label": "K.A.R. 28-4-423 Physical plant (locked medication storage)",
     "url": "https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/kansas/K-A-R-28-4-423",
     "topic": "medication"
    },
    {
     "label": "K.S.A. 38-2223 Persons required to report",
     "url": "https://www.ksrevisor.gov/statutes/chapters/ch38/038_022_0023.html",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    },
    {
     "label": "K.A.R. 28-4-430 Health practices; illness and abuse",
     "url": "https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/kansas/K-A-R-28-4-430",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    },
    {
     "label": "Child Welfare Information Gateway: Mandatory Reporting of Child Abuse and Neglect",
     "url": "https://www.childwelfare.gov/resources/mandatory-reporting-child-abuse-and-neglect/",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    }
   ]
  },
  {
   "state_code": "KY",
   "state": "Kentucky",
   "checked": "October 2026",
   "page_url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/kentucky",
   "child_care": {
    "agency": "Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS): Office of Inspector General, Division of Regulated Child Care (licensing and inspections), with rules set by the Department for Community Based Services, Division of Child Care",
    "agency_url": null,
    "licensing": "Child-care centers must be licensed: Type I centers care for 4 or more children in a nonresidential setting (or 13 or more in space separate from the licensee's home), and Type II centers care for 7 to 12 children in the licensee's own home. Family child-care homes are regulated separately through certification (922 KAR 2:090; 922 KAR 2:100).",
    "school_age_exemption": "Exempt from center licensing: summer camps permitted by the Cabinet as youth camps that serve school-age children; K-12 private schools while in session; programs regulated by the Kentucky Department of Education; after-school programs that continue the school day, are run and staffed by an accredited school, and don't take Child Care Assistance Program funds; instructional programs open no more than 20 hours a week that a child attends no more than 10 hours a week; and religious summer programs a child attends for 2 weeks or less (922 KAR 2:090, Section 3).",
    "ratio_rule": "922 KAR 2:120, Section 2(2)",
    "ratios": [
     {
      "ages": "3 years",
      "children_per_adult": 12,
      "max_group": 24
     },
     {
      "ages": "4 years",
      "children_per_adult": 14,
      "max_group": 28
     },
     {
      "ages": "5 years",
      "children_per_adult": 15,
      "max_group": 30
     },
     {
      "ages": "School-age (6 and up)",
      "children_per_adult": 15,
      "max_group": 30
     }
    ],
    "ratio_3_year_olds": 12,
    "ratio_4_year_olds": 14,
    "ratio_school_age": 15,
    "max_group_school_age": 30,
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/kentucky#licensing",
    "ratios_url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/kentucky#ratios"
   },
   "camps": {
    "camp_license": "yes",
    "agency": "Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services, Department for Public Health (youth camp permits)",
    "agency_url": null,
    "summary": "A Cabinet youth camp permit is required to operate a day, primitive, or residential camp for 5 or more children (902 KAR 10:040); permits are issued after inspection, expire December 31, and day camps file an extra day-camp application. Instructional studios, vacation Bible schools, and youth troop trips under 72 hours are not youth camps. Summer camps permitted as youth camps that serve school-age children are exempt from child care licensing (922 KAR 2:090, Section 3).",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/kentucky#camps"
   },
   "background_checks": {
    "summary": "Child care staff (owners, directors, employees present while children are in care, adult household members in home-based programs, and anyone with supervisory control or unsupervised contact) must clear checks before starting: Kentucky's child abuse and neglect central registry, the Kentucky and national sex offender registries, and a fingerprint-based Kentucky State Police and FBI check with rap back. Checks are repeated at least once every 5 years and after a break of 180 days or more from Kentucky child care work (922 KAR 2:280). Youth camp staff, contractors, and volunteers need a Cabinet child abuse and neglect records check (or a 922 KAR 2:280 check or a state and national criminal check) before working at camp (902 KAR 10:040, Section 14).",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/kentucky#background-checks"
   },
   "medication": {
    "summary": "Prescription and over-the-counter medicine may be given only with a written request from the parent or the child's prescriber and according to the label; the center keeps a written log of time, date, amount, staff member, child, and medicine. Medicine must be in the original bottle, properly labeled, not expired, and stored in a separate locked place out of children's reach (epinephrine and rescue medicine have their own rules) (922 KAR 2:120, Section 7).",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/kentucky#medication"
   },
   "mandated_reporting": {
    "everyone_must_report": true,
    "summary": "Kentucky law requires any person who suspects child abuse, neglect, or dependency to report it (KRS 620.030); the federal Child Welfare Information Gateway lists Kentucky as an all-persons reporting state. Licensed child-care centers must report abuse or neglect to the Cabinet under KRS 620.030 (922 KAR 2:090, Section 13).",
    "hotline": null,
    "hotline_url": null,
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/kentucky#reporting"
   },
   "unverified": [
    "Kentucky state websites (chfs.ky.gov, legislature.ky.gov, kentucky.gov) blocked our checker, so no CHFS licensing page could be confirmed (agencyUrl left null) and KRS text (KRS 620.030, KRS 199.896) was not read directly. Regulations were read on the LII mirror; the Office of Inspector General's Division of Regulated Child Care role comes from the 'OIG-DRCC' license forms cited in 922 KAR 2:090.",
    "Hotline not confirmed: the CHFS child abuse hotline is widely published as 1-877-597-2331 (1-877-KYSAFE1), and reports can also be made online; verify on chfs.ky.gov before publishing.",
    "Reporting deadline under KRS 620.030 (commonly stated as 'immediately') was not confirmed from the statute text.",
    "922 KAR 2:090 also exempts centers meeting KRS 199.896(19) or (20) and instructional programs meeting KRS 199.896(21); the exact conditions of those statutes were not confirmed.",
    "No separate agency web page was confirmed for youth camp permits (agencyUrl left null)."
   ],
   "sources": [
    {
     "label": "922 KAR 2:120 Child-care center health and safety standards (LII mirror)",
     "url": "https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/kentucky/922-KAR-2-120",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "922 KAR 2:090 Child-care center licensure (effective 7/18/2025, LII mirror)",
     "url": "https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/kentucky/922-KAR-2-090_v2",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "902 KAR 10:040 Kentucky youth camps (LII mirror)",
     "url": "https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/kentucky/902-KAR-10-040",
     "topic": "camps"
    },
    {
     "label": "922 KAR 2:280 Background checks for child care staff members (LII mirror)",
     "url": "https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/kentucky/922-KAR-2-280",
     "topic": "backgroundChecks"
    },
    {
     "label": "Child Welfare Information Gateway: Mandatory Reporting of Child Abuse and Neglect",
     "url": "https://www.childwelfare.gov/resources/mandatory-reporting-child-abuse-and-neglect/",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    },
    {
     "label": "922 KAR 1:330 Child protective services (24-hour hotline)",
     "url": "https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/kentucky/922-KAR-1-330",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    }
   ]
  },
  {
   "state_code": "LA",
   "state": "Louisiana",
   "checked": "October 2026",
   "page_url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/louisiana",
   "child_care": {
    "agency": "Louisiana Department of Education (LDOE), Licensing Division, under rules adopted by the Board of Elementary and Secondary Education (BESE Bulletin 137)",
    "agency_url": "https://doe.louisiana.gov/early-childhood/licensing",
    "licensing": "Any early learning center must be licensed by LDOE before it opens. A child day care center is any place that cares for seven or more unrelated children, without a parent present, on a regular basis for at least 12.5 hours in a 7-day week (transport time counts); this includes school-age programs that meet that test.",
    "school_age_exemption": "State law exempts public and nonpublic schools serving kindergarten and up, camps (programs serving only children 5 and older that run only when school is out for summer or holidays, including Vacation Bible School), care given free of charge, registered family child day care homes, and 501(c) religious programs open no more than 24 hours a week (R.S. 17:407.35; LAC 28:CLXI.303). A private after-school program that charges a fee and meets the 7-children / 12.5-hours test needs a license.",
    "ratio_rule": "LAC 28:CLXI.1711 (BESE Bulletin 137)",
    "ratios": [
     {
      "ages": "3 years",
      "children_per_adult": 13,
      "max_group": 26
     },
     {
      "ages": "4 years",
      "children_per_adult": 15,
      "max_group": 30
     },
     {
      "ages": "5 years",
      "children_per_adult": 19,
      "max_group": 38
     },
     {
      "ages": "School-age (6 and up)",
      "children_per_adult": 23,
      "max_group": 46
     }
    ],
    "ratio_3_year_olds": 13,
    "ratio_4_year_olds": 15,
    "ratio_school_age": 23,
    "max_group_school_age": 46,
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/louisiana#licensing",
    "ratios_url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/louisiana#ratios"
   },
   "camps": {
    "camp_license": "yes",
    "agency": "Louisiana Department of Health, Office of Public Health (campsite sanitation permit)",
    "agency_url": null,
    "summary": "Camps (programs serving only children 5 and older that run only when school is out) are exempt from child care licensing. Separately, the state Sanitary Code requires a permit from the state health officer to operate a campsite, and the definition covers youth camps and day camps; this permit covers sanitation, water, toilets and sleeping areas, not staffing or program rules (LAC 51:XVI.101, 501). A program that also serves children under 5 does not fit the camp exemption.",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/louisiana#camps"
   },
   "background_checks": {
    "summary": "Every owner, staff member, volunteer and most visitors and contractors at a licensed early learning center need an LDOE eligibility determination (CCCBC) before being present with children: fingerprint-based Louisiana and FBI criminal history, the Louisiana child abuse and neglect central registry, state and national sex offender registries, and registry checks in every state lived in during the past five years. A new determination is required at least once every five years. New hires may work provisionally only after a fingerprint result is back and only while monitored. Camps exempt from licensing have no state check requirement found.",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/louisiana#background-checks"
   },
   "medication": {
    "summary": "Medication (prescription or over-the-counter) needs written, dated parent authorization with the drug, dose, route, times and dates, and must come in its original container labeled with the child's name; a log is kept for every dose, and as-needed and emergency medication plans are renewed at least every six months. Staff who give medication need LDOE-approved medication administration training (including epinephrine auto-injectors) every two years, and every center must have at least two trained staff, with one on site during operating hours.",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/louisiana#medication"
   },
   "mandated_reporting": {
    "everyone_must_report": false,
    "summary": "Listed professions must report, including child care and early learning center staff, teachers, coaches, and employees and volunteers of day camps, summer camps, youth centers and youth recreation programs (Children's Code Art. 603, 609). Reports must be made immediately, by the DCFS hotline for anything needing urgent help (Art. 610); separately, any adult who witnesses the sexual abuse of a child must report it (R.S. 14:403). Licensed center staff must also complete DCFS online mandated reporter training every year (LAC 28:CLXI.1727).",
    "hotline": "1-855-452-5437 (1-855-4LA-KIDS)",
    "hotline_url": "https://www.dcfs.la.gov/child-welfare/reporting-child-abuse-neglect/",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/louisiana#reporting"
   },
   "unverified": [
    "Louisiana Department of Education and Louisiana Department of Health websites (doe.louisiana.gov, bese.louisiana.gov, ldh.la.gov) blocked automated access during this check, so the LDOE licensing page URL could not be loaded and no LDH camp page URL is given. Bulletin 137 text was read from the Cornell LII mirror (latest amendment shown: Louisiana Register July 2024).",
    "Bulletin 137 is being revised: BESE adopted an emergency rule effective June 4, 2026 amending LAC 28:CLXI.103, 301 and 303 (definitions, licensure, exemptions), and 2025-2026 legislation (Act 409 of 2025; 2026 bills on licensing public pre-K) changes pre-K licensing. These appear to focus on prekindergarten; whether they change exemptions for camps or school-age programs was not confirmed.",
    "Children's Code Art. 609 shows an amendment by Acts 2026, No. 960, effective January 1, 2027; the content of that change was not reviewed.",
    "No state background check requirement for license-exempt camps was found; not confirmed that none exists."
   ],
   "sources": [
    {
     "label": "LAC 28:CLXI.1711 child-to-staff ratios (LII mirror)",
     "url": "https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/louisiana/La-Admin-Code-tit-28-SS-CLXI-1711",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "LAC 28:CLXI.303 exemptions from licensure (LII mirror)",
     "url": "https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/louisiana/La-Admin-Code-tit-28-SS-CLXI-303",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "R.S. 17:407.33 definitions (child day care center, camp)",
     "url": "https://www.legis.la.gov/Legis/LawPrint.aspx?d=920012",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "R.S. 17:407.35 exemptions from licensure",
     "url": "https://www.legis.la.gov/Legis/LawPrint.aspx?d=920014",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "LAC 51:XVI.101 Sanitary Code campsite definitions (LII mirror)",
     "url": "https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/louisiana/La-Admin-Code-tit-51-SS-XVI-101",
     "topic": "camps"
    },
    {
     "label": "LAC 51:XVI.501 campsite permits (LII mirror)",
     "url": "https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/louisiana/La-Admin-Code-tit-51-SS-XVI-501",
     "topic": "camps"
    },
    {
     "label": "R.S. 17:407.42 criminal history and central registry review",
     "url": "https://www.legis.la.gov/Legis/LawPrint.aspx?d=920021",
     "topic": "backgroundChecks"
    },
    {
     "label": "LAC 28:CLXI.1803 components of a CCCBC (LII mirror)",
     "url": "https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/louisiana/La-Admin-Code-tit-28-SS-CLXI-1803",
     "topic": "backgroundChecks"
    },
    {
     "label": "LAC 28:CLXI.1807 who needs a CCCBC (LII mirror)",
     "url": "https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/louisiana/La-Admin-Code-tit-28-SS-CLXI-1807",
     "topic": "backgroundChecks"
    },
    {
     "label": "LAC 28:CLXI.1811 five-year renewal and provisional hires (LII mirror)",
     "url": "https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/louisiana/La-Admin-Code-tit-28-SS-CLXI-1811",
     "topic": "backgroundChecks"
    },
    {
     "label": "LAC 28:CLXI.1917 medication administration (LII mirror)",
     "url": "https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/louisiana/La-Admin-Code-tit-28-SS-CLXI-1917",
     "topic": "medication"
    },
    {
     "label": "LAC 28:CLXI.1725 medication management training (LII mirror)",
     "url": "https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/louisiana/La-Admin-Code-tit-28-SS-CLXI-1725",
     "topic": "medication"
    },
    {
     "label": "Children's Code Art. 603 definitions (mandatory reporters)",
     "url": "https://legis.la.gov/legis/LawPrint.aspx?d=73195",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    },
    {
     "label": "Children's Code Art. 609 mandatory and permitted reporting",
     "url": "https://legis.la.gov/legis/LawPrint.aspx?d=73201",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    },
    {
     "label": "Children's Code Art. 610 reporting procedure",
     "url": "https://legis.la.gov/legis/LawPrint.aspx?d=73202",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    },
    {
     "label": "R.S. 14:403 failure to report; adult witnesses of sexual abuse",
     "url": "https://legis.la.gov/Legis/LawPrint.aspx?d=78520",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    },
    {
     "label": "DCFS: reporting child abuse and neglect",
     "url": "https://www.dcfs.la.gov/child-welfare/reporting-child-abuse-neglect/",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    }
   ]
  },
  {
   "state_code": "ME",
   "state": "Maine",
   "checked": "October 2026",
   "page_url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/maine",
   "child_care": {
    "agency": "Maine Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Child and Family Services (OCFS), Children's Licensing and Investigation",
    "agency_url": "https://www.maine.gov/dhhs/ocfs/provider-resources/child-care-licensing/becoming-a-childcare-provider",
    "licensing": "Any program that regularly cares for more than two children under 13 for pay needs a license: child care centers (13 or more children), small child care facilities (3 to 12 children, not in the operator's home), nursery schools (sessions of 3.5 hours or less), and family child care homes, which have their own rule (10-148 CMR Ch. 33).",
    "school_age_exemption": "State law excludes licensed youth camps (including day camps), programs that teach a single skill such as karate, dance or basketball, and approved public or private K-12 schools (22 M.R.S. §8301-A(1-A)(B)). No separate exemption was found for school-age or after-school programs run by other operators; they are licensed like any child care facility.",
    "ratio_rule": "10-148 CMR Ch. 32, §7(C)(2)(b) (facilities serving 13 or more children)",
    "ratios": [
     {
      "ages": "3 years (2.5 to 3.5 age band)",
      "children_per_adult": 7,
      "max_group": 21
     },
     {
      "ages": "4 years (3 to under 5 age band)",
      "children_per_adult": 10,
      "max_group": 20
     },
     {
      "ages": "5 years",
      "children_per_adult": 13,
      "max_group": null
     },
     {
      "ages": "School-age (5 to 12)",
      "children_per_adult": 13,
      "max_group": null
     }
    ],
    "ratio_3_year_olds": 7,
    "ratio_4_year_olds": 10,
    "ratio_school_age": 13,
    "max_group_school_age": null,
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/maine#licensing",
    "ratios_url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/maine#ratios"
   },
   "camps": {
    "camp_license": "yes",
    "agency": "Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention (Maine CDC), Health Inspection Program",
    "agency_url": "https://www.maine.gov/dhhs/mecdc/services/business-services/health-inspections",
    "summary": "Youth camps, including day camps, residential camps and trip and travel camps, need an annual license from Maine CDC's Health Inspection Program if they run 5 or more consecutive days and are operated for direct or indirect compensation (22 M.R.S. §§2491, 2495; 10-144 CMR Ch. 208). Programs run by municipal or school employees or volunteers mostly on municipal or school property are not youth camps under the law. A licensed youth camp does not also need a child care license; day camps may not charge hourly rates for child care.",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/maine#camps"
   },
   "background_checks": {
    "summary": "Licensed child care providers must get a comprehensive check for the owner and every staff member or other person with care duties or unsupervised access to children: FBI fingerprint check, national sex offender registry, and state criminal, sex offender and child abuse and neglect registry checks for the current state and every state lived in during the past five years. Staff cannot start until OCFS issues a letter of eligibility, and checks are repeated at least every five years (10-148 CMR Ch. 34). Licensed youth camps must run a background check on all staff, counselors, volunteers and directors every year (national sex offender registry, state criminal and sex offender records, SSN and 5-year address trace), and registered sex offenders may not work there (10-144 CMR Ch. 208, §11(B)-(C)).",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/maine#background-checks"
   },
   "medication": {
    "summary": "Prescription medication may be given only with written, signed and dated parent permission, only to the child it was prescribed for, and following the original container's label; over-the-counter medication also needs written parent permission (phone, text or email allowed in an emergency, followed by written permission). Every dose is logged, medications are kept out of children's reach and discarded when expired, and staff may not give medication until they have had medication training (10-148 CMR Ch. 32, §§12(H), 8(B)).",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/maine#medication"
   },
   "mandated_reporting": {
    "everyone_must_report": false,
    "summary": "Listed adults must report when acting in a professional capacity, including school personnel, child care personnel, youth camp administrators and counselors, health care practitioners, social workers, clergy and others (22 M.R.S. §4011-A). They must report to DHHS immediately and within no more than 24 hours; anyone else may report.",
    "hotline": "1-800-452-1999",
    "hotline_url": "https://www.maine.gov/dhhs/ocfs/provider-resources/reporting-suspected-child-abuse-and-neglect",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/maine#reporting"
   },
   "unverified": [
    "A 2024 DHHS proposal to repeal and replace 10-148 CMR Ch. 32 was listed in rulemaking trackers; the Secretary of State and OCFS copies still show the September 27, 2021 rule, so whether new ratios or rules have been adopted was not confirmed.",
    "Ratio mapping: Ch. 32 has overlapping age bands (2.5-3.5 years at 1:7; 3 to under 5 at 1:10 or 1:8). Which band governs a group of 3-year-olds older than 3.5 versus younger is not spelled out beyond the youngest-child rule; check with OCFS.",
    "Whether after-school programs operated by public schools themselves (as opposed to school instruction) need a child care license was not confirmed; the statute exempts approved K-12 schools but does not mention their before- or after-school programs.",
    "22 M.R.S. §4011-A was rewritten by PL 2025, c. 667; the effective date of that change was not confirmed, though the Revisor's text (extracted Oct. 5, 2026) shows it as current."
   ],
   "sources": [
    {
     "label": "10-148 CMR Ch. 32 Child Care Facility Licensing Rule (OCFS PDF, eff. Sept. 27, 2021)",
     "url": "https://www.maine.gov/dhhs/sites/maine.gov.dhhs/files/inline-files/10-148%20Ch.%2032%20Child%20Care%20Facility%20Licensing%20Rule%20Effective%209-27-21_jpf%20edits.pdf",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "22 M.R.S. §8301-A licensure and definitions",
     "url": "https://legislature.maine.gov/statutes/22/title22sec8301-A.html",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "OCFS Child Care Provider Licensing (rules page)",
     "url": "https://www.maine.gov/dhhs/ocfs/provider-resources/child-care-licensing/becoming-a-childcare-provider",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "10-144 CMR Ch. 208 Youth Camps Rule (last amended May 5, 2025)",
     "url": "https://www.maine.gov/dhhs/mecdc/sites/maine.gov.dhhs.mecdc/files/HIP%20Youth%20Camps%20Rule%205-5-25.pdf",
     "topic": "camps"
    },
    {
     "label": "22 M.R.S. §2491 definitions (youth camp)",
     "url": "https://legislature.maine.gov/statutes/22/title22sec2491.html",
     "topic": "camps"
    },
    {
     "label": "22 M.R.S. §2495 issuance of licenses",
     "url": "https://legislature.maine.gov/statutes/22/title22sec2495.html",
     "topic": "camps"
    },
    {
     "label": "10-148 CMR Ch. 34 Child Care Provider Background Check Licensing Rule",
     "url": "https://www.maine.gov/dhhs/sites/maine.gov.dhhs/files/inline-files/10-148%20Ch.%2034%20CC%20Background%20Check%20Licensing%20Rule%20Final%20Adoption%20Effective%205-12-22_1.pdf",
     "topic": "backgroundChecks"
    },
    {
     "label": "22 M.R.S. §4011-A reporting of suspected abuse or neglect",
     "url": "https://legislature.maine.gov/statutes/22/title22sec4011-A.html",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    },
    {
     "label": "OCFS: reporting suspected child abuse and neglect",
     "url": "https://www.maine.gov/dhhs/ocfs/provider-resources/reporting-suspected-child-abuse-and-neglect",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    }
   ]
  },
  {
   "state_code": "MD",
   "state": "Maryland",
   "checked": "October 2026",
   "page_url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/maryland",
   "child_care": {
    "agency": "Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE), Division of Early Childhood, Office of Child Care, Licensing Branch",
    "agency_url": "https://earlychildhood.marylandpublicschools.org/child-care-providers/licensing",
    "licensing": "Child care centers must be licensed by MSDE's Office of Child Care; a center is any program that gives child care at least twice a week on a regular schedule to children who are not siblings, including preschools, nursery schools and before- and after-school (school-age) programs. Family child care homes are registered under separate rules (COMAR 13A.15).",
    "school_age_exemption": "Exempt from center licensing: public schools during instructional hours, nonpublic kindergartens and elementary schools during instructional hours, certified youth camps, programs that run 6 weeks or less in a calendar year, and certain programs of tax-exempt religious organizations (COMAR 13A.16.01.01B; Education Art. §9.5-405). A before- or after-school program held in a school building still needs a license, but does not have to meet extra physical-plant rules beyond those for the school building.",
    "ratio_rule": "COMAR 13A.16.08.03",
    "ratios": [
     {
      "ages": "3 years",
      "children_per_adult": 10,
      "max_group": 20
     },
     {
      "ages": "4 years",
      "children_per_adult": 10,
      "max_group": 20
     },
     {
      "ages": "5 years",
      "children_per_adult": 15,
      "max_group": 30
     },
     {
      "ages": "School-age (5 and older)",
      "children_per_adult": 15,
      "max_group": 30
     }
    ],
    "ratio_3_year_olds": 10,
    "ratio_4_year_olds": 10,
    "ratio_school_age": 15,
    "max_group_school_age": 30,
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/maryland#licensing",
    "ratios_url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/maryland#ratios"
   },
   "camps": {
    "camp_license": "yes",
    "agency": "Maryland Department of Health (MDH), Youth Camps Program, Center for Recreation and Community Environmental Health Services",
    "agency_url": "https://health.maryland.gov/phpa/OEHFP/CHS/Pages/YCCertification.aspx",
    "summary": "Day, residential, travel and trip camps must get a youth camp certificate (or letter of compliance) from MDH before operating (COMAR 10.16.06.07). A youth camp serves 7 or more unrelated campers aged 3.5 to under 18 with mainly recreational or outdoor activities; a day camp runs at least 7 days within a 3-week period. Not covered: licensed child care, before- and after-school programs, programs that enroll children under 3.5, sports-league competitions, specialized instruction of 2 hours or less a day, and (subject to local standards) programs run by county or municipal recreation departments.",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/maryland#camps"
   },
   "background_checks": {
    "summary": "Child care center staff need a comprehensive check at least every five years: Maryland fingerprint criminal check, FBI fingerprint check, Maryland and national sex offender registries, the Maryland child abuse and neglect registry, and the same registries in any state lived in during the past five years; Maryland also uses fingerprint rap-back alerts (MSDE). Certain convictions bar employment outright (COMAR 13A.16.06.03). Youth camps must have a Maryland and FBI criminal history check and a Child Protective Services clearance on file for everyone in a position with access to campers, including volunteers, plus a checked personnel administrator before the camp opens (COMAR 10.16.06.21).",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/maryland#background-checks"
   },
   "medication": {
    "summary": "Any medication, prescription or over-the-counter, needs a signed and dated parent authorization on the state form plus approval from a licensed health practitioner; prescriptions must carry the pharmacy label, and at least one dose must have been given at home first. Every dose is recorded in the child's record, and only staff who have completed state-approved medication administration training may give medication, with at least one trained staff member present whenever children are (COMAR 13A.16.11.04).",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/maryland#medication"
   },
   "mandated_reporting": {
    "everyone_must_report": true,
    "summary": "Everyone in Maryland who has reason to believe a child has been abused or neglected must report to the local department of social services or law enforcement (Family Law §5-705). Health practitioners, police, educators and human service workers must also report orally as soon as possible and in writing within 48 hours (Family Law §5-704); child care staff must report directly, not through their director (COMAR 13A.16.07.02).",
    "hotline": "1-800-917-7383 (1-800-91-PREVENT)",
    "hotline_url": "https://dhs.maryland.gov/child-protective-services/reporting-suspected-child-abuse-or-neglect/",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/maryland#reporting"
   },
   "unverified": [
    "MSDE says some Maryland rules require shorter re-check periods than five years (its example is a Child Protective Services clearance every two years); which rule and whether it applies to child care center staff was not confirmed.",
    "Whether before- and after-school or summer programs run by county or municipal recreation departments are exempt from child care center licensing was not confirmed; they are excluded from youth camp certification (COMAR 10.16.06.01B) but are not listed in the child care exemptions.",
    "How often youth camp staff checks must be repeated (e.g., each season) was not confirmed from COMAR 10.16.06.21."
   ],
   "sources": [
    {
     "label": "COMAR 13A.16.08.03 group size and staffing",
     "url": "https://regs.maryland.gov/us/md/exec/comar/13A.16.08.03",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "COMAR 13A.16.01.01 scope and exemptions",
     "url": "https://regs.maryland.gov/us/md/exec/comar/13A.16.01.01",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "Education Art. §9.5-401 definitions",
     "url": "https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Laws/StatuteText?article=ged&section=9.5-401&enactments=false",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "Education Art. §9.5-405 license required; exemptions",
     "url": "https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Laws/StatuteText?article=ged&section=9.5-405&enactments=false",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "COMAR 10.16.06.01 scope (youth camps)",
     "url": "https://regs.maryland.gov/us/md/exec/comar/10.16.06.01",
     "topic": "camps"
    },
    {
     "label": "COMAR 10.16.06.02 definitions (youth camp, day camp)",
     "url": "https://regs.maryland.gov/us/md/exec/comar/10.16.06.02",
     "topic": "camps"
    },
    {
     "label": "COMAR 10.16.06.07 certificate required",
     "url": "https://regs.maryland.gov/us/md/exec/comar/10.16.06.07",
     "topic": "camps"
    },
    {
     "label": "MDH Youth Camp Certification",
     "url": "https://health.maryland.gov/phpa/OEHFP/CHS/Pages/YCCertification.aspx",
     "topic": "camps"
    },
    {
     "label": "MSDE: background checks and fingerprinting",
     "url": "https://earlychildhood.marylandpublicschools.org/node/895",
     "topic": "backgroundChecks"
    },
    {
     "label": "COMAR 13A.16.06.03 suitability for employment",
     "url": "https://regs.maryland.gov/us/md/exec/comar/13A.16.06.03",
     "topic": "backgroundChecks"
    },
    {
     "label": "COMAR 10.16.06.21 youth camp criminal background investigations",
     "url": "https://regs.maryland.gov/us/md/exec/comar/10.16.06.21",
     "topic": "backgroundChecks"
    },
    {
     "label": "COMAR 13A.16.11.04 medication administration and storage",
     "url": "https://regs.maryland.gov/us/md/exec/comar/13A.16.11.04",
     "topic": "medication"
    },
    {
     "label": "Family Law §5-704 professionals' duty to report",
     "url": "https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Laws/StatuteText?article=gfl&section=5-704&enactments=false",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    },
    {
     "label": "Family Law §5-705 duty of all other persons to report",
     "url": "https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Laws/StatuteText?article=gfl&section=5-705&enactments=false",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    },
    {
     "label": "COMAR 13A.16.07.02 abuse/neglect reporting in centers",
     "url": "https://regs.maryland.gov/us/md/exec/comar/13A.16.07.02",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    },
    {
     "label": "Maryland DHS: reporting suspected child abuse or neglect",
     "url": "https://dhs.maryland.gov/child-protective-services/reporting-suspected-child-abuse-or-neglect/",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    }
   ]
  },
  {
   "state_code": "MA",
   "state": "Massachusetts",
   "checked": "October 2026",
   "page_url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/massachusetts",
   "child_care": {
    "agency": "Massachusetts Department of Early Education and Care (EEC)",
    "agency_url": "https://www.mass.gov/child-care-program-licensing",
    "licensing": "EEC licenses family child care homes and group and school age child care programs: small group (10 or fewer children) and large group (more than 10 children) programs that regularly care for unrelated children under 14 outside their homes, including preschools, before- and after-school programs and summer programs, wherever they are located.",
    "school_age_exemption": "Exempt: any part of a public school system; private school programs for their own enrolled students (unless the program is mainly a school-age child care program or mainly preschool/kindergarten); Sunday school and religious classes; care while parents attend religious services; informal neighbor or relative arrangements; and occasional care (606 CMR 7.02). Recreational camps licensed by the local board of health are not licensed by EEC.",
    "ratio_rule": "606 CMR 7.10(9)(b) (large group and school age child care)",
    "ratios": [
     {
      "ages": "3 years",
      "children_per_adult": 10,
      "max_group": 20
     },
     {
      "ages": "4 years",
      "children_per_adult": 10,
      "max_group": 20
     },
     {
      "ages": "5 years (kindergarten)",
      "children_per_adult": 15,
      "max_group": 30
     },
     {
      "ages": "School-age",
      "children_per_adult": 13,
      "max_group": 26
     }
    ],
    "ratio_3_year_olds": 10,
    "ratio_4_year_olds": 10,
    "ratio_school_age": 13,
    "max_group_school_age": 26,
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/massachusetts#licensing",
    "ratios_url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/massachusetts#ratios"
   },
   "camps": {
    "camp_license": "yes",
    "agency": "Local board of health in the camp's city or town, under Massachusetts Department of Public Health standards (105 CMR 430.000)",
    "agency_url": "https://www.mass.gov/info-details/recreational-camps",
    "summary": "Recreational camps for children (day, residential, sports, travel or trip camps serving 5 or more children, operating any time from June 1 to September 30 or fewer than 15 business days at other times) must be licensed each year by the local board of health under DPH rules; any program that advertises itself as a camp must be licensed (105 CMR 430.020, 430.050). Not covered unless advertised as a camp: single-purpose classes or clinics run by municipal recreation departments, drop-in programs, and classroom-based instruction without high-risk activities. EEC-licensed child care programs running a summer camp in their licensed space are exempt from the camp rules (105 CMR 430.010).",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/massachusetts#camps"
   },
   "background_checks": {
    "summary": "All employees and interns of licensed group and school age programs, plus volunteers and others with unsupervised access to children, need an EEC Background Record Check: Massachusetts CORI, DCF child abuse/neglect findings, state sex offender registry (SORI), national sex offender registry, a fingerprint-based state and FBI check, and out-of-state checks for places lived in the past five years; it is renewed every 3 years (606 CMR 14.05; EEC). Recreational camps must get a CORI and state sex offender registry check for all staff and volunteers before they start (repeated at least every 3 years for continuously employed staff), plus out-of-state checks where practicable for non-residents (105 CMR 430.090).",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/massachusetts#background-checks"
   },
   "medication": {
    "summary": "Medication must be supplied by the parent in its original labeled container and given with written parent consent; prescription medication also needs health care practitioner authorization, and oral over-the-counter medication consent must be renewed weekly in group programs. Each dose is logged (child, dose, date, time, staff signature, missed doses), the first dose should not be given at the program except in extraordinary circumstances, staff who give medication must be trained and show competency, and at least one trained educator must be present whenever children are in care (606 CMR 7.11(1)(b), 7.11(2)).",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/massachusetts#medication"
   },
   "mandated_reporting": {
    "everyone_must_report": false,
    "summary": "Listed professionals must report, including teachers, early education, preschool, child care and after-school staff in state-licensed or state-funded programs, clergy, police and health care workers (M.G.L. c. 119, §§21, 51A, as summarized in DCF's Mandated Reporter Guide). They must call DCF immediately and file a written report within 48 hours; recreational camp staff must also report immediately to DCF or the camp director, who must report to DCF immediately (105 CMR 430.093).",
    "hotline": "1-800-792-5200 (Child Abuse Emergency Line, nights, weekends and holidays; during business hours call the local DCF area office)",
    "hotline_url": "https://www.mass.gov/how-to/report-child-abuse-or-neglect",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/massachusetts#reporting"
   },
   "unverified": [
    "The statute (M.G.L. c. 15D §1A and c. 119 §§21, 51A) could not be read directly because malegislature.gov was unreachable from this environment; licensing exclusions come from 606 CMR 7.02 and the mandated reporter list from DCF's Mandated Reporter Guide (undated).",
    "Whether recreational camp staff who are not in an EEC-licensed or state-funded program are mandated reporters under c. 119 §21 was not confirmed; the camp rule requires them to report regardless.",
    "Mass.gov pages block automated tools (they returned HTTP 403 to scripts) but loaded in a regular browser."
   ],
   "sources": [
    {
     "label": "606 CMR 7.10 ratios and supervision (LII mirror)",
     "url": "https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/massachusetts/606-CMR-7-10",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "606 CMR 7.02 definitions and exclusions (LII mirror)",
     "url": "https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/massachusetts/606-CMR-7-02",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "606 CMR 7.00 official PDF (EEC)",
     "url": "https://www.mass.gov/doc/family-group-school-age-child-care-programs-606-cmr-7-0/download",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "EEC: Learn about group and school age child care programs",
     "url": "https://www.mass.gov/info-details/learn-about-group-and-school-age-child-care-programs",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "105 CMR 430.010 scope and exemptions (LII mirror)",
     "url": "https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/massachusetts/105-CMR-430-010",
     "topic": "camps"
    },
    {
     "label": "105 CMR 430.020 definitions (LII mirror)",
     "url": "https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/massachusetts/105-CMR-430-020",
     "topic": "camps"
    },
    {
     "label": "105 CMR 430.050 license required (LII mirror)",
     "url": "https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/massachusetts/105-CMR-430-050",
     "topic": "camps"
    },
    {
     "label": "105 CMR 430.000 (Mass.gov, eff. March 1, 2024)",
     "url": "https://www.mass.gov/regulations/105-CMR-43000-minimum-standards-for-recreational-camps-for-children-state-sanitary-code-chapter-iv",
     "topic": "camps"
    },
    {
     "label": "Mass.gov: Recreational camps",
     "url": "https://www.mass.gov/info-details/recreational-camps",
     "topic": "camps"
    },
    {
     "label": "606 CMR 14.05 who needs a BRC and which checks (LII mirror)",
     "url": "https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/massachusetts/606-CMR-14-05",
     "topic": "backgroundChecks"
    },
    {
     "label": "EEC Background Record Checks",
     "url": "https://www.mass.gov/eec-background-record-checks",
     "topic": "backgroundChecks"
    },
    {
     "label": "EEC BRC requirements: applicability, frequency",
     "url": "https://www.mass.gov/info-details/eec-brc-requirements-applicability-frequency",
     "topic": "backgroundChecks"
    },
    {
     "label": "105 CMR 430.090 camp background information (LII mirror)",
     "url": "https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/massachusetts/105-CMR-430-090",
     "topic": "backgroundChecks"
    },
    {
     "label": "DCF: Report child abuse or neglect",
     "url": "https://www.mass.gov/how-to/report-child-abuse-or-neglect",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    },
    {
     "label": "DCF: Report as a mandated reporter",
     "url": "https://www.mass.gov/how-to/report-child-abuse-or-neglect-as-a-mandated-reporter",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    },
    {
     "label": "DCF Mandated Reporter Guide",
     "url": "https://www.mass.gov/doc/dcf-mandated-reporter-guide/download",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    },
    {
     "label": "105 CMR 430.093 camp abuse and neglect reporting (LII mirror)",
     "url": "https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/massachusetts/105-CMR-430-093",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    }
   ]
  },
  {
   "state_code": "MI",
   "state": "Michigan",
   "checked": "October 2026",
   "page_url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/michigan",
   "child_care": {
    "agency": "Michigan Department of Lifelong Education, Advancement, and Potential (MiLEAP), Child Care Licensing Bureau",
    "agency_url": "https://www.michigan.gov/mileap/early-childhood-education/cclb",
    "licensing": "Any facility other than a private home that cares for one or more children under 13 for less than 24 hours a day without parents present must be licensed as a child care center; this includes preschools, before- and after-school programs and out-of-school-time programs, including those run by schools. Family and group child care homes are licensed under separate home rules.",
    "school_age_exemption": "Not a child care center under 1973 PA 116, per MiLEAP: Sunday school, vacation Bible school and short religious classes; care during religious services; programs mainly focused on teaching school-age children a specific subject such as dance, drama, music or religion (only during that instruction); drop-in group athletic or social programs for school-age children run by clubs or hobby groups such as scouting or youth clubs, where children can come and go at will; therapeutic programs; and care at recreation sites where parents stay on site. A school-age program run in a school building is still licensed but is excused from some facility rules (R 400.8401).",
    "ratio_rule": "Mich. Admin. Code R 400.8222 (eff. May 7, 2025)",
    "ratios": [
     {
      "ages": "3 years",
      "children_per_adult": 10,
      "max_group": 30
     },
     {
      "ages": "4 years (until school age)",
      "children_per_adult": 12,
      "max_group": 40
     },
     {
      "ages": "5 years",
      "children_per_adult": 18,
      "max_group": 54
     },
     {
      "ages": "School-age (kindergarten-eligible to 12)",
      "children_per_adult": 18,
      "max_group": 54
     }
    ],
    "ratio_3_year_olds": 10,
    "ratio_4_year_olds": 12,
    "ratio_school_age": 18,
    "max_group_school_age": 54,
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/michigan#licensing",
    "ratios_url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/michigan#ratios"
   },
   "camps": {
    "camp_license": "yes",
    "agency": "Michigan Department of Lifelong Education, Advancement, and Potential (MiLEAP), camp licensing",
    "agency_url": "https://www.michigan.gov/mileap/education-partnerships/out-of-school-time-and-summer-learning/camps/operate",
    "summary": "Children's camps (day, residential, troop and travel camps) need a state license under 1973 PA 116 when they serve more than 4 children apart from their parents for 5 or more days in a 14-day period in a natural environment; a day camp runs more than 4 but less than 24 hours a day. Michigan treats 'natural environment' as at least 51 percent of activities outdoors; a program that calls itself a day camp but does not meet the definition may need a child care center license instead.",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/michigan#camps"
   },
   "background_checks": {
    "summary": "Licensees, program directors, child care staff and unsupervised volunteers at licensed centers must pass a state comprehensive background check, including FBI fingerprints, before having unsupervised contact with children, and new staff awaiting results must always be supervised (R 400.8201; MCL 722.115n, 722.115q). Supervised volunteers need a sex offender registry check. Licensed camps must keep, before a staff member starts, a criminal history record from the Michigan State Police (or home-state equivalent), three references, and, for staff 21 and older, proof they are not a substantiated child abuse or neglect perpetrator (R 400.11109).",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/michigan#background-checks"
   },
   "medication": {
    "summary": "Only program staff may give medication, and only with prior written parent permission; medication must be in its original container labeled for the child, and prescriptions must carry the pharmacy label and be given as directed. Each dose is recorded (time, amount, staff signature) on a state form or approved substitute, one form per medication; topical over-the-counter products such as sunscreen need written parent permission once a year (R 400.8260).",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/michigan#medication"
   },
   "mandated_reporting": {
    "everyone_must_report": false,
    "summary": "Listed professions must report under the Child Protection Law (MCL 722.621 et seq.), including regulated child care providers, teachers, school administrators and counselors, clergy, social workers, health workers, athletic trainers and law enforcement; anyone else may report. Mandated reporters must make an immediate oral report to MDHHS Centralized Intake (or use the online system) and follow with a written report within 72 hours. Licensed camps must have a written plan for reporting under the Child Protection Law (R 400.11115).",
    "hotline": "855-444-3911",
    "hotline_url": "https://www.michigan.gov/mdhhs/adult-child-serv/abuse-neglect/childrens/mandated-reporters",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/michigan#reporting"
   },
   "unverified": [
    "The statute itself (1973 PA 116, MCL 722.111 et seq., and the Child Protection Law, MCL 722.623) could not be read because legislature.mi.gov was unreachable from this environment; licensing exclusions come from MiLEAP's Parent's Guide and the reporter list from MDHHS's Mandated Reporter Resource Guide.",
    "How often child care staff background checks must be repeated, and the full list of registries searched for staff (e.g. child abuse and neglect central registry, out-of-state checks), were not confirmed from the statute; MiLEAP guidance confirms FBI fingerprints and a central registry clearance for license applicants.",
    "Whether licensed children's camp staff count as 'regulated child care providers' (and so are mandated reporters) was not confirmed; camps must still have a reporting plan.",
    "Child care center rules were rewritten effective May 7, 2025 (ratios changed, e.g. school-age now 1:18, group 54); older summaries may show earlier numbers.",
    "MiLEAP's Parent's Guide says day camps are regulated by an 'Adult Foster Care and Camp Licensing Division', while MiLEAP's camp pages show camp licensing under MiLEAP; the exact unit name was not confirmed.",
    "Michigan.gov pages block automated tools (HTTP 403 to scripts) but loaded in a regular browser."
   ],
   "sources": [
    {
     "label": "R 400.8222 capacity, ratio and group size (LII mirror)",
     "url": "https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/michigan/Mich-Admin-Code-R-400-8222",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "R 400.8101 definitions, ages (LII mirror)",
     "url": "https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/michigan/Mich-Admin-Code-R-400-8101",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "R 400.8401 school-age center provisions and exemptions (LII mirror)",
     "url": "https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/michigan/Mich-Admin-Code-R-400-8401",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "MiLEAP: A Parent's Guide to Child Care Licensing (rev. May 11, 2026)",
     "url": "https://www.michigan.gov/mileap/-/media/Project/Websites/mileap/Documents/Early-Childhood-Education/CCLB/ADA/Forms/A-Parents-Guide-to-Child-Care-Licensing.pdf?rev=6bbbdf98fb1940a3afb3a9c88ac7ee78&hash=3ADE8C337AC0F30AE11802A6E0457A38",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "MiLEAP: Rules, statutes and technical assistance",
     "url": "https://www.michigan.gov/mileap/early-childhood-education/cclb/provider-resources/rules-statutes-technical-assistance",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "MiLEAP: Start a licensed camp (camp types and when a license is needed)",
     "url": "https://www.michigan.gov/mileap/education-partnerships/out-of-school-time-and-summer-learning/camps/operate",
     "topic": "camps"
    },
    {
     "label": "Children's and adult foster care camp rules, R 400.11101 et seq. (LII mirror)",
     "url": "https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/michigan/department-lifelong-education-advancement-and-potential/office-of-education-partnerships/childrens-and-adult-foster-care-camps",
     "topic": "camps"
    },
    {
     "label": "R 400.8201 comprehensive background check; fingerprinting (LII mirror)",
     "url": "https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/michigan/Mich-Admin-Code-R-400-8201",
     "topic": "backgroundChecks"
    },
    {
     "label": "Michigan Child Care Background Check program",
     "url": "https://www.michigan.gov/ccbc",
     "topic": "backgroundChecks"
    },
    {
     "label": "R 400.11109 camp staff records (LII mirror)",
     "url": "https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/michigan/Mich-Admin-Code-R-400-11109",
     "topic": "backgroundChecks"
    },
    {
     "label": "R 400.8260 medication (LII mirror)",
     "url": "https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/michigan/Mich-Admin-Code-R-400-8260",
     "topic": "medication"
    },
    {
     "label": "MDHHS: Mandated reporters",
     "url": "https://www.michigan.gov/mdhhs/adult-child-serv/abuse-neglect/childrens/mandated-reporters",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    },
    {
     "label": "MDHHS Mandated Reporter Resource Guide (Sept. 2025)",
     "url": "https://www.michigan.gov/mdhhs/-/media/Project/Websites/mdhhs/Adult-and-Childrens-Services/Abuse-and-Neglect/Childrens-Protective-Services/Mandated_Reporter_Resource_Guide.pdf?rev=ad9f229bb84e4e30817fb703da3ef16b&hash=CC065E7B0DC678CCA02713D0D99F0A1C",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    },
    {
     "label": "R 400.11115 camp child protection plan (LII mirror)",
     "url": "https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/michigan/Mich-Admin-Code-R-400-11115",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    }
   ]
  },
  {
   "state_code": "MN",
   "state": "Minnesota",
   "checked": "October 2026",
   "page_url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/minnesota",
   "child_care": {
    "agency": "Minnesota Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF), Licensing Division",
    "agency_url": "https://dcyf.mn.gov/partners-and-providers/licensing",
    "licensing": "Anyone operating a nonresidential child care program (care outside the child's home for less than 24 hours a day) needs a DCYF license unless excluded by law (Minn. Stat. §142B.05); centers follow Minn. R. ch. 9503, and school-age child care programs (more than 10 children, mainly school-age care) and drop-in programs are licensed as centers with some special rules (§142B.41, subd. 6).",
    "school_age_exemption": "Excluded from licensing (Minn. Stat. §142B.05, subd. 2): programs run by a public school for children 33 months or older; school-age programs run by a school, YMCA, YWCA or JCC; park and recreation board programs; scouting, clubs, sports and art programs; nonresidential programs running fewer than 30 days total in 12 months; qualifying nonprofit youth development programs for grades K-12 that give parents written notice they are unlicensed; religious instruction; and youth camps licensed by the Department of Health. Excluded programs that take child care assistance funds must be certified as license-exempt centers (ch. 142C).",
    "ratio_rule": "Minn. R. 9503.0040, subp. 1; Minn. Stat. §142B.41, subd. 6 (school-age programs)",
    "ratios": [
     {
      "ages": "3 years (preschooler)",
      "children_per_adult": 10,
      "max_group": 20
     },
     {
      "ages": "4 years (preschooler)",
      "children_per_adult": 10,
      "max_group": 20
     },
     {
      "ages": "5 years",
      "children_per_adult": 15,
      "max_group": 30
     },
     {
      "ages": "School-age",
      "children_per_adult": 15,
      "max_group": 30
     }
    ],
    "ratio_3_year_olds": 10,
    "ratio_4_year_olds": 10,
    "ratio_school_age": 15,
    "max_group_school_age": 30,
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/minnesota#licensing",
    "ratios_url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/minnesota#ratios"
   },
   "camps": {
    "camp_license": "partly",
    "agency": "Minnesota Department of Health, Food, Pools and Lodging Services Section",
    "agency_url": "https://www.health.state.mn.us/communities/environment/recreation/lodging/rules/youthcamp.html",
    "summary": "The Department of Health licenses youth camps, defined as camps that provide both food and lodging (overnight) for 10 or more people for 5 or more days a year; its rules cover the site, sanitation, food, water, health care and first aid (Minn. Stat. §§144.71-144.74; Minn. R. 4630.2300-4630.4700). Day camps without lodging are not youth camps under that law; they need a DCYF child care license unless they fit a licensing exclusion (for example park and recreation programs, sports or art programs, nonprofit youth development programs, or programs running fewer than 30 days a year).",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/minnesota#camps"
   },
   "background_checks": {
    "summary": "Child care center staff and others with direct contact need a state background study that includes fingerprints for a national (FBI) criminal check, Minnesota criminal and predatory offender records, Minnesota maltreatment records, the national sex offender registry, and criminal, sex offender and child abuse registries in every state lived in during the past five years; the study must be repeated within five years (Minn. Stat. §§245C.04, 245C.08). No background check requirement was found in the state youth camp rules (Minn. R. ch. 4630).",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/minnesota#background-checks"
   },
   "medication": {
    "summary": "A center that chooses to give medicine needs written parent permission (also for diapering products, sunscreen and insect repellent) and written instructions from a physician or dentist for each prescription; a current pharmacy label counts as instructions. Medicine must be in its original container labeled with the child's name, never given past its expiration date, stored out of children's reach, and every dose recorded with the child's name, medication, date, time, dose and the signature of the person who gave it (Minn. R. 9503.0140, subp. 7).",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/minnesota#medication"
   },
   "mandated_reporting": {
    "everyone_must_report": false,
    "summary": "Professionals and their delegates in child care, education, health care, social services, mental health, corrections, probation and law enforcement, plus clergy, must report (Minn. Stat. §260E.06); anyone else may report. Reports go to the county or tribal social services agency or law enforcement immediately by phone, followed by a written report within 72 hours (excluding weekends and holidays) (§260E.09).",
    "hotline": null,
    "hotline_url": "https://dcyf.mn.gov/individuals-and-families/report-abuse",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/minnesota#reporting"
   },
   "unverified": [
    "DCYF web pages (dcyf.mn.gov) showed a bot-check CAPTCHA, so the DCYF licensing and report-abuse page URLs (taken from links on the DCYF home page) could not be opened and no statewide hotline number could be confirmed.",
    "Whether staff of day camps that are excluded from licensing (e.g. park and recreation or nonprofit youth programs) count as mandated reporters under 'child care' or 'education' in §260E.06 was not confirmed.",
    "Minn. Stat. §142B.05 was amended in the 2026 session (2026 c. 88, subds. 7 and 8, on excluded programs seeking licensure); the exclusion list itself (subd. 2) shows no 2026 change, but effective dates were not checked."
   ],
   "sources": [
    {
     "label": "Minn. R. 9503.0040 staff ratios and group size",
     "url": "https://www.revisor.mn.gov/rules/9503.0040/",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "Minn. R. 9503.0005 definitions (age categories)",
     "url": "https://www.revisor.mn.gov/rules/9503.0005/",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "Minn. Stat. §142B.05 who must be licensed; exclusions",
     "url": "https://www.revisor.mn.gov/statutes/cite/142B.05",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "Minn. Stat. §142B.01 definitions (school-age child)",
     "url": "https://www.revisor.mn.gov/statutes/cite/142B.01",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "Minn. Stat. ch. 142B full text (§142B.41 subd. 6)",
     "url": "https://www.revisor.mn.gov/statutes/cite/142B/full",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "Minn. Stat. §144.71 youth camp definition",
     "url": "https://www.revisor.mn.gov/statutes/cite/144.71",
     "topic": "camps"
    },
    {
     "label": "Minn. Stat. §144.72 license required",
     "url": "https://www.revisor.mn.gov/statutes/cite/144.72",
     "topic": "camps"
    },
    {
     "label": "MDH: Youth camps",
     "url": "https://www.health.state.mn.us/communities/environment/recreation/lodging/rules/youthcamp.html",
     "topic": "camps"
    },
    {
     "label": "Minn. Stat. §245C.04 when background studies are required",
     "url": "https://www.revisor.mn.gov/statutes/cite/245C.04",
     "topic": "backgroundChecks"
    },
    {
     "label": "Minn. Stat. §245C.08 information reviewed",
     "url": "https://www.revisor.mn.gov/statutes/cite/245C.08",
     "topic": "backgroundChecks"
    },
    {
     "label": "Minn. R. 9503.0140 health (subp. 7, administration of medicine)",
     "url": "https://www.revisor.mn.gov/rules/9503.0140/",
     "topic": "medication"
    },
    {
     "label": "Minn. Stat. §260E.06 maltreatment reporting",
     "url": "https://www.revisor.mn.gov/statutes/cite/260E.06",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    },
    {
     "label": "Minn. Stat. §260E.09 reporting requirements",
     "url": "https://www.revisor.mn.gov/statutes/cite/260E.09",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    }
   ]
  },
  {
   "state_code": "MS",
   "state": "Mississippi",
   "checked": "October 2026",
   "page_url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/mississippi",
   "child_care": {
    "agency": "Mississippi State Department of Health (MSDH), Child Care Facilities Licensure Branch",
    "agency_url": "https://msdh.ms.gov/page/30,0,183.html",
    "licensing": "A license is needed for any place that cares for six or more unrelated children under age 13 for any part of the day. This covers day care centers, preschools, school-age programs and summer day camps unless an exemption applies. Homes caring for five or fewer children can register voluntarily, and homes caring for 12 or fewer children in the operator's home have their own regulations.",
    "school_age_exemption": "Programs run inside an accredited elementary or secondary school are exempt. Accreditors include the Mississippi Department of Education, SACS, the Mississippi Private School Association, AACS, ACSI and Accelerated Christian Education. Also exempt: programs that run three weeks or less a year (such as vacation Bible school or scout day camps), care offered no more than two days a week as respite, and national membership groups such as Boys & Girls Clubs or the YMCA that charge only a nominal yearly fee ($600 or less) and meet their national standards (Miss. Code Ann. § 43-20-5).",
    "ratio_rule": "Miss. Admin. Code Title 15, Part 11, Subpart 55, Ch. 1, Rule 1.8.2 (ratios) and Rule 1.8.3 (group size); school-age group sizes repeated in Rule 1.22.3",
    "ratios": [
     {
      "ages": "3 years",
      "children_per_adult": 14,
      "max_group": 28
     },
     {
      "ages": "4 years",
      "children_per_adult": 16,
      "max_group": 32
     },
     {
      "ages": "5 years",
      "children_per_adult": 20,
      "max_group": 40
     },
     {
      "ages": "School-age (6-9 years)",
      "children_per_adult": 20,
      "max_group": 40
     }
    ],
    "ratio_3_year_olds": 14,
    "ratio_4_year_olds": 16,
    "ratio_school_age": 20,
    "max_group_school_age": 40,
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/mississippi#licensing",
    "ratios_url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/mississippi#ratios"
   },
   "camps": {
    "camp_license": "partly",
    "agency": "Mississippi State Department of Health (MSDH), Child Care Facilities Licensure Branch",
    "agency_url": "https://msdh.ms.gov/page/30,0,183.html",
    "summary": "Overnight youth camps need an MSDH youth camp license under the Mississippi Youth Camp Safety and Health Law (Miss. Code Ann. Title 75, Ch. 74). This applies to camps on a permanent site running four or more consecutive 24-hour periods for 20 or more children aged 6 to 18. Athletic camps and hunting or fishing camps are excluded. Day camps are generally covered by child care licensing, which has specific summer day camp rules (Rule 1.22), unless an exemption applies, such as running three weeks or less a year.",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/mississippi#camps"
   },
   "background_checks": {
    "summary": "All operators, employees and prospective employees of a licensed child care facility need a comprehensive fingerprint-based check before starting work. It covers the FBI and Mississippi criminal history, the state child abuse registry, the national and state sex offender registries, and other states when applicable. Staff can't start until MSDH issues a Letter of Suitability. The check is repeated every five years, and again after a break in service of more than 180 days. Volunteers who work 120 or more hours a year need the same check (Rule 1.5.2). The MSDH youth camp regulations do not include their own background check requirement.",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/mississippi#background-checks"
   },
   "medication": {
    "summary": "The child's file must hold a parent's signed written authorization to give medication (Rule 1.6.7), and the facility's written procedures for storing and giving medication must be shared with parents before enrollment (Rule 1.4.1). Each dose must be logged with the date, time and the signature of the staff member who gave it (Rule 1.6.3). Staff who give medication must be able to read the directions and dispense it correctly (Rule 1.5.1).",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/mississippi#medication"
   },
   "mandated_reporting": {
    "everyone_must_report": true,
    "summary": "Miss. Code Ann. § 43-21-353 lists professionals, including child caregivers, school employees and ministers, and then adds 'any other person' with reasonable cause to suspect abuse or neglect, so everyone must report. The report must be made right away by phone or otherwise, with a written report following as soon as possible.",
    "hotline": "1-800-222-8000",
    "hotline_url": "https://reportabuse.mdcps.ms.gov/",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/mississippi#reporting"
   },
   "unverified": [
    "We could not load the statute text of Miss. Code Ann. § 43-20-5 directly. The exemption list comes from MSDH's 'How to Get a Child Care License' guide.",
    "The MSDH youth camp regulations PDF is marked 'Revised April 12, 1996' but is still posted as the current regulations. Fees and any later changes were not confirmed.",
    "The child care regulations don't clearly require medication to be kept in its original labeled container. Not confirmed."
   ],
   "sources": [
    {
     "label": "MSDH Child Care Facilities Licensure",
     "url": "https://msdh.ms.gov/page/30,0,183.html",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "MSDH Regulations Governing Licensure of Child Care Facilities (effective Feb. 26, 2026)",
     "url": "https://msdh.ms.gov/page/resources/78.pdf",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "MSDH Child Care Regulations and Guidelines page",
     "url": "https://msdh.ms.gov/page/30,0,183,225.html",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "MSDH How to Get a Child Care License (exemptions list)",
     "url": "https://msdh.ms.gov/page/resources/22018.pdf",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "MSDH Youth Camp Regulations (Title 15, Part 11, Subpart 55, Ch. 4)",
     "url": "https://msdh.ms.gov/Page/resources/77.pdf",
     "topic": "camps"
    },
    {
     "label": "MSDH Child Care Facility Laws page",
     "url": "https://msdh.ms.gov/page/30,0,183,650.html",
     "topic": "camps"
    },
    {
     "label": "MSDH Comprehensive Background Checks",
     "url": "https://msdh.ms.gov/page/30,0,206.html",
     "topic": "backgroundChecks"
    },
    {
     "label": "MDCPS Reporting Child Abuse and Neglect",
     "url": "https://www.mdcps.ms.gov/node/44",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    },
    {
     "label": "MDCPS online reporting",
     "url": "https://reportabuse.mdcps.ms.gov/",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    },
    {
     "label": "Child Welfare Information Gateway, Mandatory Reporting of Child Abuse and Neglect (current through May 2023)",
     "url": "https://www.childwelfare.gov/resources/mandatory-reporting-child-abuse-and-neglect/",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    }
   ]
  },
  {
   "state_code": "MO",
   "state": "Missouri",
   "checked": "October 2026",
   "page_url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/missouri",
   "child_care": {
    "agency": "Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE), Office of Childhood, Child Care Compliance and Regulation",
    "agency_url": "https://dese.mo.gov/childhood/child-care-licensing",
    "licensing": "Anyone caring for more than six children, or more than three children under age 2, must be licensed by DESE unless exempt (RSMo 210.201, 210.211). License types are family child care homes (up to 10 children), group child care homes (up to 20) and child care centers.",
    "school_age_exemption": "Several programs are exempt under RSMo 210.211: school systems, summer or day camps run in good faith mainly for recreation, programs serving only children in grade 6 or above, neighborhood youth development programs, and child care under the exclusive control of a religious organization. Any program that receives state or federal child care funds (other than USDA food program funds) cannot claim an exemption, and unlicensed programs must tell parents in writing that they are not licensed.",
    "ratio_rule": "5 CSR 25-500.112",
    "ratios": [
     {
      "ages": "3 years",
      "children_per_adult": 10,
      "max_group": 20
     },
     {
      "ages": "4 years",
      "children_per_adult": 10,
      "max_group": 20
     },
     {
      "ages": "5 years",
      "children_per_adult": 16,
      "max_group": 32
     },
     {
      "ages": "School-age (6 and up)",
      "children_per_adult": 16,
      "max_group": 32
     }
    ],
    "ratio_3_year_olds": 10,
    "ratio_4_year_olds": 10,
    "ratio_school_age": 16,
    "max_group_school_age": 32,
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/missouri#licensing",
    "ratios_url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/missouri#ratios"
   },
   "camps": {
    "camp_license": "no",
    "agency": null,
    "agency_url": null,
    "summary": "We found no Missouri state license for youth camps. Summer and day camps run in good faith mainly for recreation are exempt from child care licensing (RSMo 210.211.1(4)). A 'day camp' runs between 6 a.m. and 7 p.m. when local schools are not in session, and a 'summer camp' runs May to September (RSMo 210.201). Both serve children 5 and older in kindergarten or above and can't share space with care for younger children. A camp that receives state or federal child care funds can't use the exemption.",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/missouri#camps"
   },
   "background_checks": {
    "summary": "Before working, child care staff must have a qualifying result on a check that includes an FBI fingerprint check, the national sex offender registry, and the criminal, sex offender and child abuse/neglect registries (including the Family Care Safety Registry) for Missouri and every state lived in during the past five years. New staff may start on a temporary eligibility notice if they are supervised at all times. Checks are repeated every five years (5 CSR 25-600.010 and .020; RSMo 210.1080). We found no separate state requirement for exempt camps.",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/missouri#background-checks"
   },
   "medication": {
    "summary": "Providers don't have to give medication, but if they do they need the parent's dated written permission stating how long it may be given. Prescription medicine must be in its original container labeled with the child's name, instructions and physician's name, and over-the-counter medicine in its original container labeled by the parent. All medication is stored out of children's reach or locked. Each dose is recorded with the date, time, amount and name of the person giving it (5 CSR 25-500.192(3)).",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/missouri#medication"
   },
   "mandated_reporting": {
    "everyone_must_report": false,
    "summary": "RSMo 210.115 lists required reporters, including day care center workers and other child-care workers, teachers, principals and other school officials, health and mental health practitioners, social workers, ministers, law enforcement, and any 'other person with responsibility for the care of children'. They must report to the Children's Division immediately. Anyone else may report.",
    "hotline": "1-800-392-3738",
    "hotline_url": "https://dss.mo.gov/cd/can.htm",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/missouri#reporting"
   },
   "unverified": [
    "DESE is rewriting its child care licensing rules under Executive Order 25-15 and held informational sessions on proposed changes in March-April 2026. The official rule chapter we used is the Secretary of State's December 2023 code update. Ratios or other rules may change once new rules are filed.",
    "Two 2026 bills (HB 3142 / SB 1642) proposed regulating overnight and residential camps. HB 3142's last action was 'postponed' on April 21, 2026, and RSMo 210.211 still shows the camp exemption (version effective August 28, 2024). We didn't confirm SB 1642's final status.",
    "There may be no state license for overnight (resident) camps at all. We found none, but no official source states this directly."
   ],
   "sources": [
    {
     "label": "DESE Child Care Licensing",
     "url": "https://dese.mo.gov/childhood/child-care-licensing",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "5 CSR 25-500, Licensing Rules for Group Child Care Homes and Child Care Centers (Secretary of State)",
     "url": "https://www.sos.mo.gov/CMSImages/AdRules/csr/current/5csr/5c25-500.pdf",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "RSMo 210.211, license required and exemptions",
     "url": "https://revisor.mo.gov/main/OneSection.aspx?section=210.211",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "RSMo 210.201, definitions",
     "url": "https://revisor.mo.gov/main/OneSection.aspx?section=210.201",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "Missouri House, HB 3142 (2026) status",
     "url": "https://house.mo.gov/Bill.aspx?bill=HB3142&year=2026&code=R",
     "topic": "camps"
    },
    {
     "label": "5 CSR 25-600, Background Screening (Secretary of State)",
     "url": "https://www.sos.mo.gov/CMSImages/AdRules/csr/current/5csr/5c25-600.pdf",
     "topic": "backgroundChecks"
    },
    {
     "label": "DESE Background Check Process",
     "url": "https://dese.mo.gov/childhood/child-care/background-check-process",
     "topic": "backgroundChecks"
    },
    {
     "label": "RSMo 210.115",
     "url": "https://revisor.mo.gov/main/OneSection.aspx?section=210.115",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    },
    {
     "label": "Missouri DSS Child Abuse & Neglect Hotline",
     "url": "https://dss.mo.gov/cd/can.htm",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    },
    {
     "label": "Child Welfare Information Gateway, Mandatory Reporting of Child Abuse and Neglect (current through May 2023)",
     "url": "https://www.childwelfare.gov/resources/mandatory-reporting-child-abuse-and-neglect/",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    }
   ]
  },
  {
   "state_code": "MT",
   "state": "Montana",
   "checked": "October 2026",
   "page_url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/montana",
   "child_care": {
    "agency": "Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS), Early Childhood and Family Support Division, Child Care Licensing Program",
    "agency_url": "https://dphhs.mt.gov/ecfsd/childcare/childcarelicensing/",
    "licensing": "Any provider regularly caring for seven or more children must be licensed or registered. Child care centers (16 or more children in an out-of-home setting) must be licensed. Group homes (9-15 children) and family homes (7-8 children) must register (ARM 37.96.102).",
    "school_age_exemption": "School-age care facilities, which serve only school-age children during out-of-school time, and drop-in facilities may choose to be licensed but are not required to be (ARM 37.96.102(3)(a)(i)). DPHHS says before-school, after-school, drop-in and preschool programs do not need a license.",
    "ratio_rule": "ARM 37.96.106",
    "ratios": [
     {
      "ages": "3 years",
      "children_per_adult": 10,
      "max_group": 20
     },
     {
      "ages": "4 years",
      "children_per_adult": 10,
      "max_group": 20
     },
     {
      "ages": "5 years",
      "children_per_adult": 10,
      "max_group": 20
     },
     {
      "ages": "School-age (6 and up)",
      "children_per_adult": 20,
      "max_group": 40
     }
    ],
    "ratio_3_year_olds": 10,
    "ratio_4_year_olds": 10,
    "ratio_school_age": 20,
    "max_group_school_age": 40,
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/montana#licensing",
    "ratios_url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/montana#ratios"
   },
   "camps": {
    "camp_license": "partly",
    "agency": "Montana DPHHS, Environmental Health and Food Safety Section (with local environmental health offices)",
    "agency_url": "https://dphhs.mt.gov/publichealth/EHFS/TrailerCourtsAndCampgrounds",
    "summary": "Montana licenses 'youth camps' under Title 50, Ch. 52, MCA and ARM 37.111 subchapter 12. A youth camp is land with buildings, tents or other structures used as living quarters for 10 or more people, mainly for minors' education or recreation. The license covers sanitation (water, sewage, solid waste and food service), not staffing or programming, and applications go through the local environmental health office. Day programs without living quarters don't appear to be covered. Programs for school-age children may choose to be licensed as school-age care.",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/montana#camps"
   },
   "background_checks": {
    "summary": "Directors, owners, teachers, substitutes, trainees, support staff, volunteers with unsupervised contact and adults living in the facility need satisfactory checks before working (ARM 37.96.1002). The checks are a Montana DOJ/FBI fingerprint check, the national (NCIC) and Montana sex offender registries, child protective services checks, and name-based criminal checks for Montana and every state lived in during the past five years. State checks are repeated every year and national checks every five years. We found no separate background check rule for youth camps.",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/montana#background-checks"
   },
   "medication": {
    "summary": "Staff may give medication only with the parent's written authorization, which must list the child's name, how long it applies, dosage amount and time, and the parent's signature. Medicine must be labeled, and prescription medicine kept in the original pharmacy-labeled container. All medicine is stored out of children's reach with child-protective caps, and expired medicine can't be used. Programs that give medication keep a log of the date, time and dose (ARM 37.96.502).",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/montana#medication"
   },
   "mandated_reporting": {
    "everyone_must_report": false,
    "summary": "MCA 41-3-201 lists required reporters, including teachers and school employees, operators and employees of registered or licensed day-care and child-care facilities, health and mental health professionals, clergy, social workers, law enforcement, and employees of groups that contract with DPHHS to serve children. They must report promptly to DPHHS. Anyone else may report.",
    "hotline": "1-866-820-5437",
    "hotline_url": "https://dphhs.mt.gov/CFSD/contacts",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/montana#reporting"
   },
   "unverified": [
    "Some older DPHHS handouts still show the repealed ARM 37.95.623 ratios (for example 8:1 for ages 2-3 and 14:1 for age 5 and over). We used the current ARM 37.96.106, effective May 1, 2025.",
    "The rules.mt.gov links load only in a full web browser (JavaScript required).",
    "We didn't confirm whether any Montana rule beyond the sanitation license applies to day camps that have no living quarters.",
    "Montana's youth camp rules (ARM 37.111 subchapter 12) are linked from the DPHHS page. We didn't review them line by line for staffing or health-care requirements."
   ],
   "sources": [
    {
     "label": "DPHHS Child Care Licensing",
     "url": "https://dphhs.mt.gov/ecfsd/childcare/childcarelicensing/",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "ARM 37.96.106 Child-to-Staff Ratios (Montana Secretary of State)",
     "url": "https://rules.mt.gov/browse/collections/aec52c46-128e-4279-9068-8af5d5432d74/policies/9115d9cd-2786-4088-ad4d-7db512a303f1",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "ARM 37.96.102 Types of Licenses and Registration",
     "url": "https://rules.mt.gov/browse/collections/aec52c46-128e-4279-9068-8af5d5432d74/policies/914ed886-c74e-4070-b33f-3c9088971538",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "DPHHS Become a Child Care Provider",
     "url": "https://dphhs.mt.gov/ecfsd/childcare/childcarelicensing/becomeachildcareprovider/",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "DPHHS Child Care Rules and Regulations (ARM 37.96)",
     "url": "https://dphhs.mt.gov/ecfsd/childcare/childcarelicensing/rulesandregulations",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "DPHHS Trailer Courts, Campgrounds, Youth Camps and Work Camps",
     "url": "https://dphhs.mt.gov/publichealth/EHFS/TrailerCourtsAndCampgrounds",
     "topic": "camps"
    },
    {
     "label": "MCA 50-52-101 (youth camp definition)",
     "url": "https://leg.mt.gov/bills/mca/title_0500/chapter_0520/part_0010/section_0010/0500-0520-0010-0010.html",
     "topic": "camps"
    },
    {
     "label": "MCA 50-52-201 (license application)",
     "url": "https://leg.mt.gov/bills/mca/title_0500/chapter_0520/part_0020/section_0010/0500-0520-0020-0010.html",
     "topic": "camps"
    },
    {
     "label": "ARM 37.96.1002 Fingerprint and Background Checks",
     "url": "https://rules.mt.gov/browse/collections/aec52c46-128e-4279-9068-8af5d5432d74/policies/8440c7d2-5f32-4f14-a0f1-62c20113621e",
     "topic": "backgroundChecks"
    },
    {
     "label": "ARM 37.96.502 Medication Administration",
     "url": "https://rules.mt.gov/browse/collections/aec52c46-128e-4279-9068-8af5d5432d74/policies/749ee6ee-0440-464b-9e02-b81a0390a051",
     "topic": "medication"
    },
    {
     "label": "MCA 41-3-201",
     "url": "https://leg.mt.gov/bills/mca/title_0410/chapter_0030/part_0020/section_0010/0410-0030-0020-0010.html",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    },
    {
     "label": "DPHHS Child and Family Services contacts (hotline)",
     "url": "https://dphhs.mt.gov/CFSD/contacts",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    },
    {
     "label": "Child Welfare Information Gateway, Mandatory Reporting of Child Abuse and Neglect (current through May 2023)",
     "url": "https://www.childwelfare.gov/resources/mandatory-reporting-child-abuse-and-neglect/",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    }
   ]
  },
  {
   "state_code": "NE",
   "state": "Nebraska",
   "checked": "October 2026",
   "page_url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/nebraska",
   "child_care": {
    "agency": "Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), Division of Public Health, Licensure Unit (Child Care Licensing)",
    "agency_url": "https://dhhs.ne.gov/licensure/Pages/Child-Care-Licensing.aspx",
    "licensing": "Child care for four or more children at a time generally needs a DHHS license under the Child Care Licensing Act (Neb. Rev. Stat. §§ 71-1908 to 71-1923). Rules exist for Family Child Care Homes I and II, child care centers (13 or more children), school-age-only centers (13 or more children in kindergarten or above) and preschools (391 NAC chapters 1-5).",
    "school_age_exemption": "Exempt programs include services offered only to school-age children during summer and other long school breaks, programs run or contracted by a public school district under State Department of Education rules, recreation camps (Neb. Rev. Stat. § 71-3101), and recreation programs run by a city, county or other local government. Care averaging less than two hours a week and care only for children 13 and older are also exempt (391 NAC 3-001.02 and 4-001.02). Exempt programs may still choose to be licensed.",
    "ratio_rule": "391 NAC 3-006.15C (child care centers); 391 NAC 4-006.14C (school-age-only centers)",
    "ratios": [
     {
      "ages": "3 years",
      "children_per_adult": 10,
      "max_group": null
     },
     {
      "ages": "4 years",
      "children_per_adult": 12,
      "max_group": null
     },
     {
      "ages": "5 years",
      "children_per_adult": 12,
      "max_group": null
     },
     {
      "ages": "School-age (kindergarten and up)",
      "children_per_adult": 15,
      "max_group": null
     }
    ],
    "ratio_3_year_olds": 10,
    "ratio_4_year_olds": 12,
    "ratio_school_age": 15,
    "max_group_school_age": null,
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/nebraska#licensing",
    "ratios_url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/nebraska#ratios"
   },
   "camps": {
    "camp_license": "partly",
    "agency": "Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), Division of Public Health (environmental health)",
    "agency_url": null,
    "summary": "Recreation camps need an annual DHHS permit to operate under 178 NAC 1, Rules and Regulations Relating to Recreation Camps. The rules mainly cover the campsite, buildings, water, plumbing, sewage, food, swimming pools, safety, first aid and health records. Recreation camps are exempt from child care licensing. A summer-only program for school-age children is also exempt from child care licensing.",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/nebraska#camps"
   },
   "background_checks": {
    "summary": "Under the center rules, the licensee, every staff member and volunteer aged 19 or older (and household members if the center is in a home) need a criminal history check before employment, through the Nebraska State Patrol or local law enforcement. Everyone must also clear the Nebraska child abuse/neglect central register (age 13 and older), the adult protective services registry (18 and older) and the State Patrol sex offender registry before caring for children (391 NAC 3-006.03). The recreation camp rules contain no background check requirement.",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/nebraska#background-checks"
   },
   "medication": {
    "summary": "Staff may give prescription or over-the-counter medication only with prior written permission and written instructions from a parent, following the 'Five Rights' (right drug, child, dose, route and time). A prescriber's written statement is needed for as-needed prescriptions or unusual routes. All medication is kept locked in its original container labeled for the child, and the time and amount of each dose is recorded. Errors must be reported to the parent (391 NAC 3-006.27).",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/nebraska#medication"
   },
   "mandated_reporting": {
    "everyone_must_report": true,
    "summary": "Nebraska requires any person who suspects child abuse or neglect to report it, not only listed professionals. Reports go to law enforcement or the DHHS hotline. Center directors must immediately report, or make sure a report is filed, with the Child Abuse-Neglect Hotline and/or local law enforcement (391 NAC 3-006.02).",
    "hotline": "1-800-652-1999",
    "hotline_url": "https://www.education.ne.gov/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/LB281Posters-Break-the-Silence.pdf",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/nebraska#reporting"
   },
   "unverified": [
    "The Nebraska DHHS website (dhhs.ne.gov) and the Legislature's statute site (nebraskalegislature.gov) refused connections from our network, so we couldn't load or check them. The agencyUrl is the DHHS page linked from ChildCare.gov, but we couldn't confirm it loads. The regulations come from Cornell LII's copy of the Nebraska Administrative Code, not DHHS's own PDFs.",
    "We couldn't confirm whether Nebraska now requires FBI fingerprint checks every five years for child care staff (federal child care funding rules require them). The 2013 center rules describe only a State Patrol or local law enforcement check plus registry checks.",
    "We didn't confirm the time limit for reports in Neb. Rev. Stat. § 28-711. The 'immediately' wording comes from the center rules for directors.",
    "We couldn't load the definition of 'recreation camp' (Neb. Rev. Stat. § 71-3101), so it's unclear whether day camps need the recreation camp permit.",
    "The center rules (391 NAC 3) are dated 2013. We found no later amendment, but couldn't check DHHS's site for newer versions.",
    "The camps agencyUrl is null because the DHHS recreation camp page couldn't be reached."
   ],
   "sources": [
    {
     "label": "391 NAC 3-006 Standards of Operation and Care (Cornell LII copy of the Nebraska Administrative Code)",
     "url": "https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/nebraska/391-Neb-Admin-Code-ch-3-SS-006",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "391 NAC 3-001 Scope and exemptions (Cornell LII)",
     "url": "https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/nebraska/391-Neb-Admin-Code-ch-3-SS-001",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "391 NAC 4-006 School-age-only centers (Cornell LII)",
     "url": "https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/nebraska/391-Neb-Admin-Code-ch-4-SS-006",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "ChildCare.gov Nebraska licensing resources (links to DHHS pages)",
     "url": "https://childcare.gov/state-resources/nebraska/understanding-and-finding-child-care-resources",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "178 NAC 1, Recreation Camps (Cornell LII)",
     "url": "https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/nebraska/health-and-human-services-system/title-178/chapter-1",
     "topic": "camps"
    },
    {
     "label": "178 NAC 1-012 Health of campers and staff (Cornell LII)",
     "url": "https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/nebraska/178-Neb-Admin-Code-ch-1-SS-012",
     "topic": "camps"
    },
    {
     "label": "Child Welfare Information Gateway, Mandatory Reporting of Child Abuse and Neglect (current through May 2023)",
     "url": "https://www.childwelfare.gov/resources/mandatory-reporting-child-abuse-and-neglect/",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    },
    {
     "label": "Nebraska Department of Education hotline poster",
     "url": "https://www.education.ne.gov/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/LB281Posters-Break-the-Silence.pdf",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    }
   ]
  },
  {
   "state_code": "NV",
   "state": "Nevada",
   "checked": "October 2026",
   "page_url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/nevada",
   "child_care": {
    "agency": "Nevada Division of Social Services (DSS), Child Care Licensing (CCL)",
    "agency_url": "https://www.dss.nv.gov/programs/child-care-licensing-ccl/",
    "licensing": "A state license is required to care for more than four children who are not your relatives, or for whom you are paid, under NRS and NAC Chapter 432A. License types include family homes (up to 6 children), group homes (up to 12), child care centers (13 or more), out-of-school-time programs, accommodation facilities and institutions. Cities and counties may also require business licenses or special use permits.",
    "school_age_exemption": null,
    "ratio_rule": "NAC 432A.5205",
    "ratios": [
     {
      "ages": "3 years",
      "children_per_adult": 12,
      "max_group": 24
     },
     {
      "ages": "4 years",
      "children_per_adult": 13,
      "max_group": 26
     },
     {
      "ages": "5 years",
      "children_per_adult": 18,
      "max_group": 36
     },
     {
      "ages": "School-age (6 and up)",
      "children_per_adult": 18,
      "max_group": 36
     }
    ],
    "ratio_3_year_olds": 12,
    "ratio_4_year_olds": 13,
    "ratio_school_age": 18,
    "max_group_school_age": 36,
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/nevada#licensing",
    "ratios_url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/nevada#ratios"
   },
   "camps": {
    "camp_license": "no",
    "agency": null,
    "agency_url": null,
    "summary": "We found no Nevada state license or permit specifically for youth day or overnight camps. 'Outdoor youth programs' are a separately licensed category under NAC 432A.630-.780, but those rules focus on clients' treatment plans and psychological oversight, not general recreation camps. A day camp serving school-age children 10 or more hours a week may count as an Out of School Time program under child care licensing, so check with DSS.",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/nevada#camps"
   },
   "background_checks": {
    "summary": "Every employee, and every resident or volunteer aged 18 or older (other than a parent of an enrolled child), must be fingerprinted within 24 hours of being hired or first being present, and again every five years. The state reviews criminal history and any substantiated child abuse or neglect reports (NAC 432A.200). New hires are entered in the Nevada Automated Background System (NABS). We found no state background check rule specific to camps.",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/nevada#background-checks"
   },
   "medication": {
    "summary": "Prescription medicine must be in its original container with a child-proof lid, plainly labeled with the child's name and locked up or kept out of reach. Except in an emergency, only one person chosen by the licensee and trained by a health professional or the child's parent may give medication. A written record of each medication, child, date and time is kept in the child's file (NAC 432A.376).",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/nevada#medication"
   },
   "mandated_reporting": {
    "everyone_must_report": false,
    "summary": "Nevada lists the professionals who must report (NRS 432B.220), and child care licensees and employees must report suspected abuse or neglect under that law. If the abuse may be happening in the facility, they must also report it to the licensing division (NAC 432A.410). Report to the county child welfare agency for your area.",
    "hotline": "Clark County: 702-399-0081; Washoe County: 833-900-7233; all other counties (DCFS): 833-571-1041",
    "hotline_url": "https://www.dcfs.nv.gov/contact-us/report-suspected-child-abuse-neglect/",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/nevada#reporting"
   },
   "unverified": [
    "The Nevada Legislature's site (leg.state.nv.us, which hosts NRS and NAC) blocked our access with a Cloudflare challenge. NAC text comes from Cornell LII's copy, and NRS 432A (exemptions) and NRS 432B.220 (list of reporters and deadline) could not be read.",
    "We couldn't confirm the reporting deadline under NRS 432B.220 or the exact list of required reporters.",
    "We couldn't confirm which school-age, recreation or camp programs are exempt from child care licensing.",
    "We couldn't confirm whether Nevada has any state camp licensing or permit. The health department sitemap showed no youth camp program, but that doesn't prove there is none.",
    "NAC 432A.376 doesn't mention written parent permission for medication. A separate rule may require it. Not confirmed.",
    "DPBH (dpbh.nv.gov) still hosts older child care licensing pages. DSS's own pages say DSS now manages child care licensing.",
    "After hours and on weekends, the DCFS page says to call local law enforcement for counties served by DCFS. The page lists no single statewide 24-hour number."
   ],
   "sources": [
    {
     "label": "DSS Child Care Licensing",
     "url": "https://www.dss.nv.gov/programs/child-care-licensing-ccl/",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "NAC 432A.5205 staffing ratios (Cornell LII copy of the Nevada Administrative Code)",
     "url": "https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/nevada/NAC-432A-5205",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "DSS Child Care Licensing Reference Guide (ratio chart)",
     "url": "https://www.dss.nv.gov/siteassets/dwss.nv.gov/content/care/ccl/licensing-info/State_of_Nevada_Child_Care_Reference_Guide.pdf",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "DSS Child Care Facility Types",
     "url": "https://www.dss.nv.gov/programs/child-care-licensing-ccl/ccl-complaints/childcare-facilities/",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "DSS Child Care Licensing FAQs",
     "url": "https://www.dss.nv.gov/programs/child-care-licensing-ccl/ccl-faqs/",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "NAC Chapter 432A index, including Outdoor Youth Programs (Cornell LII)",
     "url": "https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/nevada/chapter-432A",
     "topic": "camps"
    },
    {
     "label": "NAC 432A.200 (Cornell LII)",
     "url": "https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/nevada/NAC-432A-200",
     "topic": "backgroundChecks"
    },
    {
     "label": "NAC 432A.376 Medication (Cornell LII)",
     "url": "https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/nevada/NAC-432A-376",
     "topic": "medication"
    },
    {
     "label": "Nevada DCFS, Report Suspected Child Abuse or Neglect",
     "url": "https://www.dcfs.nv.gov/contact-us/report-suspected-child-abuse-neglect/",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    },
    {
     "label": "NAC 432A.410 (Cornell LII)",
     "url": "https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/nevada/NAC-432A-410",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    },
    {
     "label": "Child Welfare Information Gateway, Mandatory Reporting of Child Abuse and Neglect (current through May 2023)",
     "url": "https://www.childwelfare.gov/resources/mandatory-reporting-child-abuse-and-neglect/",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    }
   ]
  },
  {
   "state_code": "NH",
   "state": "New Hampshire",
   "checked": "October 2026",
   "page_url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/new-hampshire",
   "child_care": {
    "agency": "New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), Child Care Licensing Unit (CCLU)",
    "agency_url": "https://www.dhhs.nh.gov/programs-services/childcare-parenting-childbirth/child-care-licensing",
    "licensing": "CCLU licenses family child care homes, family group child care homes, group child care centers, child care nurseries, preschools, school-age programs, night care and residential programs under RSA 170-E and He-C 4002. A private home caring for its own children plus up to four others is exempt.",
    "school_age_exemption": "Exempt programs include those run by a public or private school or college; skill-instruction programs such as athletics, crafts, music or dance; and municipal recreation programs, including after-school and summer programs. Also exempt are recreational programs for children 6 and older run by a school, religious group, Boys & Girls Club, Girls Inc., YMCA or YWCA, if they notify parents they are unlicensed, have a grievance policy and meet national standards (RSA 170-E:3). Exempt programs serving children on a state child care scholarship must still meet certain health and safety rules, including background checks.",
    "ratio_rule": "He-C 4002.35 (group child care centers); He-C 4002.38 (school-age programs)",
    "ratios": [
     {
      "ages": "3 years",
      "children_per_adult": 8,
      "max_group": 24
     },
     {
      "ages": "4 years",
      "children_per_adult": 12,
      "max_group": 24
     },
     {
      "ages": "5 years",
      "children_per_adult": 15,
      "max_group": 30
     },
     {
      "ages": "School-age (6 and up)",
      "children_per_adult": 15,
      "max_group": 45
     }
    ],
    "ratio_3_year_olds": 8,
    "ratio_4_year_olds": 12,
    "ratio_school_age": 15,
    "max_group_school_age": 45,
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/new-hampshire#licensing",
    "ratios_url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/new-hampshire#ratios"
   },
   "camps": {
    "camp_license": "yes",
    "agency": "New Hampshire DHHS, Child Care Licensing Unit, Youth Camp Program",
    "agency_url": "https://www.dhhs.nh.gov/programs-services/childcare-parenting-childbirth/child-care-licensing/youth-camp-programs/youth",
    "summary": "Youth recreation camps, both residence camps and seasonal or year-round day camps, need a DHHS license (RSA 170-E:56; He-C 4003). This covers programs running at least 10 days a license year for 10 or more youth a day. Programs licensed as child care, or exempt from child care licensing under RSA 170-E:3, I, don't need a camp license. 'Youth skill camps' (a set curriculum over 3 or more consecutive days) are not licensed but must run criminal background checks on anyone who may be alone with children.",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/new-hampshire#camps"
   },
   "background_checks": {
    "summary": "Child care staff, substitutes, other employees, volunteers who may be alone with children or count in ratios, and household members 18 and older need a background check before starting and every five years (He-C 4002.40; RSA 170-E:7). The check covers NH criminal records, the NH abuse/neglect registry, the NH sex offender registry, an FBI fingerprint check, the national sex offender registry, and other states lived in during the past five years. Staff can't be with children until CCLU confirms eligibility, apart from supervised presence after clean fingerprint results. Youth recreation camp staff need criminal checks in every state they have lived in, a national sex offender registry check, an NH central registry check if they lived in NH in the past seven years, and references (He-C 4003.17).",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/new-hampshire#background-checks"
   },
   "medication": {
    "summary": "Only trained, authorized staff (or a nurse or licensed practitioner) may give medication. They need a medication order (a prescription label or a licensed practitioner's order) plus the parent's written permission. Staff must complete medication training before giving any medicine and again every year. Medicine stays in its original container and out of children's reach, each dose is logged with the date, time and staff signature, and parents are told immediately of any error (He-C 4002.20).",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/new-hampshire#medication"
   },
   "mandated_reporting": {
    "everyone_must_report": true,
    "summary": "Any person who suspects that a child under 18 has been abused or neglected must report it immediately to DCYF (RSA 169-C:29-31). Proof isn't required, and DCYF may ask for a written report within 48 hours.",
    "hotline": "1-800-894-5533 (in-state only); 603-271-6562",
    "hotline_url": "https://www.dhhs.nh.gov/report-concern/report-child-abuse",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/new-hampshire#reporting"
   },
   "unverified": [
    "NH DHHS pages and PDFs loaded in a full web browser but returned 403 to automated tools, so link checkers may report them as broken even though they work.",
    "We couldn't load the NH statutes site (gc.nh.gov), so the exact statutory age definition of a 'school-age program' (RSA 170-E:2) was not confirmed. We mapped 3, 4 and 5 years using He-C 4002.35's month-based bands.",
    "He-C 4002.20(b)(2) reads as requiring a practitioner's medication order for over-the-counter medicine too. Programs should confirm with CCLU how this applies to parent-supplied over-the-counter products."
   ],
   "sources": [
    {
     "label": "NH DHHS Child Care Licensing",
     "url": "https://www.dhhs.nh.gov/programs-services/childcare-parenting-childbirth/child-care-licensing",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "He-C 4002 NH Child Care Licensing Rule (adopted 8/26/25)",
     "url": "https://www.dhhs.nh.gov/sites/g/files/ehbemt476/files/documents2/he-c-4002-formatted.pdf",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "2025 Summary of Major Changes to He-C 4002",
     "url": "https://www.dhhs.nh.gov/sites/g/files/ehbemt476/files/documents2/he-c4002-summary.pdf",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "NH DHHS Licensing Exemptions",
     "url": "https://www.dhhs.nh.gov/programs-services/childcare-parenting-childbirth/child-care-licensing/licensing-exemptions",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "NH DHHS Youth Camp Programs",
     "url": "https://www.dhhs.nh.gov/programs-services/childcare-parenting-childbirth/child-care-licensing/youth-camp-programs",
     "topic": "camps"
    },
    {
     "label": "NH DHHS Youth Recreation Camp Licensing Program",
     "url": "https://www.dhhs.nh.gov/programs-services/childcare-parenting-childbirth/child-care-licensing/youth-camp-programs/youth",
     "topic": "camps"
    },
    {
     "label": "He-C 4003 Youth Recreation Camp rules (adopted 5/21/25)",
     "url": "https://www.dhhs.nh.gov/sites/g/files/ehbemt476/files/documents2/he-c-4003-youth-recreation-camps.pdf",
     "topic": "camps"
    },
    {
     "label": "NH DHHS Background Checks for Child Care Personnel",
     "url": "https://www.dhhs.nh.gov/programs-services/childcare-parenting-childbirth/child-care-licensing/background-checks-child-care",
     "topic": "backgroundChecks"
    },
    {
     "label": "CCLU Authorization to Administer Medication form",
     "url": "https://www.dhhs.nh.gov/sites/g/files/ehbemt476/files/documents/2021-11/cclu-medication.pdf",
     "topic": "medication"
    },
    {
     "label": "NH DHHS Report Child Abuse",
     "url": "https://www.dhhs.nh.gov/report-concern/report-child-abuse",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    },
    {
     "label": "Child Welfare Information Gateway, Mandatory Reporting of Child Abuse and Neglect (current through May 2023)",
     "url": "https://www.childwelfare.gov/resources/mandatory-reporting-child-abuse-and-neglect/",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    }
   ]
  },
  {
   "state_code": "NJ",
   "state": "New Jersey",
   "checked": "October 2026",
   "page_url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/new-jersey",
   "child_care": {
    "agency": "New Jersey Department of Children and Families (DCF), Office of Licensing",
    "agency_url": "https://www.nj.gov/dcf/divisions-offices/ool/index.shtml",
    "licensing": "Any home or facility that cares for six or more children under 13 for less than 24 hours a day needs a DCF child care center license. That includes school-age child care programs and recreation-type centers run by county or municipal recreation or park departments. Family child care homes (five or fewer children) are not licensed; they may register voluntarily.",
    "school_age_exemption": "Exempt from licensing: programs run by a local public school board; programs that are an integral part of a private K-6 school; single-activity programs such as sports, art, music or dance (limited to 2 hours a day for children under 6); qualifying homework/tutoring programs; and youth camps holding a Department of Health youth camp license. Drop-in programs of 2 hours or less with the parent in the building, and 'open door' programs where children come and go on their own, are not centers. Sources: N.J.A.C. 3A:52-1.2 and 1.3.",
    "ratio_rule": "N.J.A.C. 3A:52-4.3(c) (ratios); N.J.A.C. 3A:52-4.4 (group sizes)",
    "ratios": [
     {
      "ages": "3 years",
      "children_per_adult": 10,
      "max_group": 20
     },
     {
      "ages": "4 years",
      "children_per_adult": 12,
      "max_group": 20
     },
     {
      "ages": "5 years",
      "children_per_adult": 15,
      "max_group": 20
     },
     {
      "ages": "School-age (6 and up)",
      "children_per_adult": 15,
      "max_group": 30
     }
    ],
    "ratio_3_year_olds": 10,
    "ratio_4_year_olds": 12,
    "ratio_school_age": 15,
    "max_group_school_age": 30,
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/new-jersey#licensing",
    "ratios_url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/new-jersey#ratios"
   },
   "camps": {
    "camp_license": "yes",
    "agency": "New Jersey Department of Health, Youth Camp Safety program",
    "agency_url": "https://www.nj.gov/health/ceohs/phfpp/youthcamps/",
    "summary": "Private day camps and resident (overnight) camps need an annual youth camp certificate of approval from the Department of Health under the Youth Camp Safety Act (N.J.S.A. 26:12-1 et seq.) and N.J.A.C. 8:25. A youth camp serves five or more children under 18 for two or more days in the same week; a day program with only a minimal recreational part and no high-risk activity is not a camp. Municipally run camps are not required to be licensed, and a licensed youth camp does not also need a DCF child care license.",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/new-jersey#camps"
   },
   "background_checks": {
    "summary": "Licensed centers: the sponsor and every staff member working on a regular schedule must consent to a Child Abuse Record Information (CARI) check, resubmitted with each license renewal, and the sponsor and staff 18 and older must complete a fingerprint-based criminal history (CHRI) check through the State Police and FBI. New staff must start both within two weeks of hire and cannot be left alone with children until results arrive (N.J.A.C. 3A:52-4.10, 4.11). Youth camps have their own rule (N.J.A.C. 8:25-3.2): adult staff with unsupervised access need a 50-state name-based criminal check (resident camps also need an FBI fingerprint check), all staff need an annual sex offender registry check, and full checks repeat every five years, with the first deadline June 15, 2026.",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/new-jersey#background-checks"
   },
   "medication": {
    "summary": "Centers must tell parents their medication policy at enrollment and give medicine only with the parent's written approval, by designated trained staff. Medicine stays in its original container (prescriptions labeled for the child) in a locked or inaccessible place, each dose is logged, over-the-counter medicine is limited to listed types given per the label unless a health care provider authorizes otherwise in writing, and school-age children may self-administer with written parent authorization under staff supervision (N.J.A.C. 3A:52-7.5).",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/new-jersey#medication"
   },
   "mandated_reporting": {
    "everyone_must_report": true,
    "summary": "Every person who has reasonable cause to believe a child has been abused or neglected must report it immediately to the Division of Child Protection and Permanency (N.J.S.A. 9:6-8.10). Reports can be anonymous; call 911 as well if a child is in immediate danger.",
    "hotline": "1-877-652-2873 (1-877-NJ ABUSE), 24/7",
    "hotline_url": "https://www.nj.gov/dcf/stay-connected/get-involved/hotlines-helplines/index.shtml",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/new-jersey#reporting"
   },
   "unverified": [
    "Not confirmed: whether licensed center staff also need sex offender registry and out-of-state checks and a five-year re-check (required of states by the federal CCDBG Act). The 2023 DCF center manual describes only CARI and CHRI checks, and the state's childcarenj.gov background check pages blocked automated access.",
    "N.J.S.A. 9:6-8.10 citation and wording come from search results of the NJ Legislature site, which could not be loaded directly; the 'any person must report' duty is confirmed by DCF pages and the federal Child Welfare Information Gateway.",
    "Youth camp background check rules are new (first compliance deadline June 15, 2026); DOH's FAQ adds a 'three hours a day' threshold to the camp definition that does not appear in the rule text."
   ],
   "sources": [
    {
     "label": "N.J.A.C. 3A:52 Manual of Requirements for Child Care Centers (effective Dec. 20, 2023)",
     "url": "https://www.nj.gov/dcf/documents/providers/licensing/laws/CCCmanual.pdf",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "DCF Office of Licensing",
     "url": "https://www.nj.gov/dcf/divisions-offices/ool/index.shtml",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "DCF licensing laws and regulations",
     "url": "https://www.nj.gov/dcf/providers-contractors/licensing-and-billing/laws-and-regulations.shtml",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "NJ DOH Youth Camps",
     "url": "https://www.nj.gov/health/ceohs/phfpp/youthcamps/",
     "topic": "camps"
    },
    {
     "label": "N.J.A.C. 8:25 Youth Camp Safety Standards (current through March 18, 2026)",
     "url": "https://www.nj.gov/health/ceohs/documents/phfpp/Youth_Camp_Rule_Updated_March_18_2026.pdf",
     "topic": "camps"
    },
    {
     "label": "NJ DOH Youth Camp FAQ",
     "url": "https://www.nj.gov/health/ceohs/phfpp/youthcamps/faq.shtml",
     "topic": "camps"
    },
    {
     "label": "NJ DCF Hotlines and Helplines",
     "url": "https://www.nj.gov/dcf/stay-connected/get-involved/hotlines-helplines/index.shtml",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    },
    {
     "label": "NJ DCF educational materials (how to report)",
     "url": "https://www.nj.gov/dcf/stay-connected/get-involved/educational-materials.shtml",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    },
    {
     "label": "Child Welfare Information Gateway: Mandatory Reporting (May 2023)",
     "url": "https://www.childwelfare.gov/resources/mandatory-reporting-child-abuse-and-neglect/",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    }
   ]
  },
  {
   "state_code": "NM",
   "state": "New Mexico",
   "checked": "October 2026",
   "page_url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/new-mexico",
   "child_care": {
    "agency": "New Mexico Early Childhood Education and Care Department (ECECD), Child Care Services Bureau, Regulatory Oversight Unit",
    "agency_url": "https://www.nmececd.org/child-care-licensing-and-registered-homes/",
    "licensing": "ECECD licenses child care centers, out-of-school-time (OST) programs for school-age children (ages 5 to 18, before and after school or when school is out), and licensed family and group child care homes. A person caring for four or fewer non-resident children in their own home is exempt from licensing (8.9.4.9 NMAC).",
    "school_age_exemption": "The licensing rules do not apply to programs run by a public school system and governed by the local school board; accredited private schools serving children 5 and older for education only; summer camps, wilderness camps and recreation-only programs run by recognized organizations such as churches, schools and scouts (if not in a private residence); summer religious schools; and care where parents stay on the premises (8.9.4.9 NMAC). Other before/after-school programs need an OST license.",
    "ratio_rule": "8.9.4.23(C) NMAC (centers); 8.9.4.42(A)(9) NMAC (out-of-school-time programs)",
    "ratios": [
     {
      "ages": "3 years",
      "children_per_adult": 12,
      "max_group": 24
     },
     {
      "ages": "4 years",
      "children_per_adult": 12,
      "max_group": 24
     },
     {
      "ages": "5 years",
      "children_per_adult": 15,
      "max_group": 30
     },
     {
      "ages": "School-age (6 and up)",
      "children_per_adult": 15,
      "max_group": 30
     }
    ],
    "ratio_3_year_olds": 12,
    "ratio_4_year_olds": 12,
    "ratio_school_age": 15,
    "max_group_school_age": 30,
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/new-mexico#licensing",
    "ratios_url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/new-mexico#ratios"
   },
   "camps": {
    "camp_license": "no",
    "agency": null,
    "agency_url": null,
    "summary": "We found no New Mexico youth camp license. Summer camps, wilderness camps and recreation-only programs run by recognized organizations (churches, schools, scouts) are exempt from ECECD child care licensing as long as they are not in a private residence (8.9.4.9(G) NMAC). A day program for school-age children that does not fit that exemption may need an ECECD out-of-school-time license.",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/new-mexico#camps"
   },
   "background_checks": {
    "summary": "All staff, volunteers and anyone with unsupervised access to children in licensed centers and OST programs need a comprehensive check: fingerprint-based state and FBI criminal history, state and national sex offender registries, New Mexico abuse and neglect records, plus criminal, sex offender and abuse/neglect checks in any state lived in during the past five years. A person may not start until cleared or issued a notice of provisional employment, and must be directly supervised until cleared. Checks repeat at least every five years (8.9.6 NMAC; 8.9.4.21 and 8.9.4.40 NMAC). No separate camp requirement was found.",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/new-mexico#background-checks"
   },
   "medication": {
    "summary": "Medicine may be given only with written permission from a parent, following the prescriber's written directions (or the parent's written instructions for over-the-counter products, including sunscreen and insect repellent). A designated staff member gives it from the original container labeled with the child's name and date, keeps it locked, signs a log of each dose that the parent initials the same day, and never gives expired medicine (8.9.4.26(C) NMAC). New staff must complete approved training that covers medication administration within three months of hire (8.9.4.23 NMAC).",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/new-mexico#medication"
   },
   "mandated_reporting": {
    "everyone_must_report": true,
    "summary": "Every person who knows or reasonably suspects a child is abused or neglected must report immediately to CYFD Statewide Central Intake, local law enforcement, or the tribal agency for an Indian child in Indian country (NMSA 32A-4-3).",
    "hotline": "1-855-333-SAFE (7233), or #SAFE from a cell phone",
    "hotline_url": "https://www.cyfd.nm.gov/report-abuse-and-neglect/",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/new-mexico#reporting"
   },
   "unverified": [
    "No New Mexico youth camp licensing law or rule was found, but this could not be ruled out completely; resident camps may still need Environment Department permits for food service, pools or water systems (not confirmed).",
    "ECECD posted proposed amendments to 8.9.4 NMAC in June 2026; adoption status not confirmed. Ratio tables in the proposal match current rules.",
    "The State Records Center HTML copy of 8.9.4 NMAC shows amendments only through Oct. 8, 2024; the Nov. 4, 2025 amendments were checked in ECECD's PDF and did not change ratios, medication or five-year re-check rules."
   ],
   "sources": [
    {
     "label": "8.9.4 NMAC (State Records Center)",
     "url": "https://www.srca.nm.gov/parts/title08/08.009.0004.html",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "8.9.4 NMAC as amended effective Nov. 4, 2025 (ECECD)",
     "url": "https://www.nmececd.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/8.9.4-NMAC-10.23.25-FINAL.pdf",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "ECECD Regulatory Oversight Unit",
     "url": "https://www.nmececd.org/child-care-licensing-and-registered-homes/",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "Proposed amendments to 8.9.4 NMAC (June 2026)",
     "url": "https://www.nmececd.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Proposed-Amendments-to-8.9.4-NMAC.pdf",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "ECECD comprehensive background check process",
     "url": "https://www.nmececd.org/comprehensive-background-check-process/",
     "topic": "backgroundChecks"
    },
    {
     "label": "8.9.6 NMAC background checks",
     "url": "https://www.srca.nm.gov/parts/title08/08.009.0006.html",
     "topic": "backgroundChecks"
    },
    {
     "label": "CYFD Report Abuse and Neglect",
     "url": "https://www.cyfd.nm.gov/report-abuse-and-neglect/",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    },
    {
     "label": "Child Welfare Information Gateway: Mandatory Reporting (May 2023)",
     "url": "https://www.childwelfare.gov/resources/mandatory-reporting-child-abuse-and-neglect/",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    }
   ]
  },
  {
   "state_code": "NY",
   "state": "New York",
   "checked": "October 2026",
   "page_url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/new-york",
   "child_care": {
    "agency": "New York State Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS), Division of Child Care Services; in New York City, child care centers for children under 6 are permitted by the NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene",
    "agency_url": "https://ocfs.ny.gov/programs/childcare/",
    "licensing": "OCFS licenses child day care centers (seven or more children, more than three hours a day) and group family day care homes. Family day care homes, small day care centers (three to six children) and school-age child care programs (more than six school-age children) register with OCFS instead (Social Services Law §390). In New York City, center-based care for children under 6 needs a NYC Health Department permit under Article 47 of the NYC Health Code; school-age programs in NYC still register with OCFS.",
    "school_age_exemption": "Not child day care, so no license or registration: day camps as defined in the State Sanitary Code; after-school programs run for religious education, sports or recreation; and kindergarten, pre-K or after-school programs run by a public school district or a private elementary/secondary school on its own premises (Social Services Law §390(1)(a)).",
    "ratio_rule": "18 NYCRR 418-1.8(k) (child day care centers); 18 NYCRR 414.8(k) (school-age child care programs)",
    "ratios": [
     {
      "ages": "3 years",
      "children_per_adult": 7,
      "max_group": 18
     },
     {
      "ages": "4 years",
      "children_per_adult": 8,
      "max_group": 21
     },
     {
      "ages": "5 years",
      "children_per_adult": 9,
      "max_group": 24
     },
     {
      "ages": "School-age (6 and up)",
      "children_per_adult": 10,
      "max_group": 20
     }
    ],
    "ratio_3_year_olds": 7,
    "ratio_4_year_olds": 8,
    "ratio_school_age": 10,
    "max_group_school_age": 20,
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/new-york#licensing",
    "ratios_url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/new-york#ratios"
   },
   "camps": {
    "camp_license": "yes",
    "agency": "New York State Department of Health (Subpart 7-2 of the State Sanitary Code); permits are issued and camps inspected by the local health department (the NYC Health Department in New York City)",
    "agency_url": "https://www.health.ny.gov/environmental/outdoors/camps/",
    "summary": "Summer day camps, traveling summer day camps and overnight camps need a permit from the local health department and are inspected twice a year. A summer day camp, for this rule, serves children under 16 between June 1 and September 15 with organized activities, at least one of which is a non-passive recreational activity with significant risk of injury (10 NYCRR 7-2.2). Programs that do not meet the camp definition are not permitted as camps; summer programs may instead be run by OCFS-licensed child care programs.",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/new-york#camps"
   },
   "background_checks": {
    "summary": "Prospective child care employees, directors, operators and volunteers with potential unsupervised contact need state (DCJS) and FBI fingerprint checks, a Statewide Central Register (child abuse) database check, New York and national sex offender registry searches, and criminal, sex offender and child abuse registry checks for any other state lived in during the past five years. Clearances must be repeated at least every five years (Social Services Law §390-b). Children's camps: camp directors undergo background checks and operators must check staff and volunteers against the New York State and national sex offender registries.",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/new-york#background-checks"
   },
   "medication": {
    "summary": "A program that gives medicine needs an OCFS health care plan (approved by a health care consultant if it gives more than topical products and emergency medicines), and only designated staff who completed OCFS Medication Administration Training (or hold a nursing or medical license) may give it. Ongoing doses need written parent permission plus written instructions from the prescriber, medicine stays in its original container, each dose is documented, and errors must be reported to the parent immediately and to OCFS within 24 hours (18 NYCRR 418-1.11).",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/new-york#medication"
   },
   "mandated_reporting": {
    "everyone_must_report": false,
    "summary": "Listed professionals must report, including day care center workers, school-age child care workers, family and group family day care providers, other child care workers, directors of overnight, summer day and traveling day camps, school staff, and compensated school employees who hold a coaching license or certificate (Social Services Law §413). Reports must be made immediately by phone, followed by a written report within 48 hours (§415).",
    "hotline": "Mandated reporters: 1-800-635-1522; public: 1-800-342-3720",
    "hotline_url": "https://ocfs.ny.gov/programs/cps/",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/new-york#reporting"
   },
   "unverified": [
    "ocfs.ny.gov pages (agencyUrl, hotlineUrl) block automated access with a bot check, so they could not be load-tested; the two hotline numbers come from OCFS pages as shown in search results. Please confirm both URLs open in a browser.",
    "Regulation text was read on Cornell LII copies of the official NYCRR (418-1.8 and 414.8 last amended June 3, 2020; 418-1.11 amended June 3, 2020). OCFS's own regulation pages could not be loaded to confirm there are no later amendments.",
    "NYC Health Code Article 47 ratios for NYC centers were not reviewed; a 2025 rulemaking changed some Article 47 staffing rules."
   ],
   "sources": [
    {
     "label": "18 NYCRR 418-1.8 (Cornell LII)",
     "url": "https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/new-york/18-NYCRR-418-1.8",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "18 NYCRR 414.8 (Cornell LII)",
     "url": "https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/new-york/18-NYCRR-414.8",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "Social Services Law §390 (NY Senate)",
     "url": "https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/laws/SOS/390",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "NYC Health: Child Care Center Based permits",
     "url": "https://www.nyc.gov/site/doh/business/permits-and-licenses/child-care-center-based.page",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "NYS DOH Children's Camps",
     "url": "https://www.health.ny.gov/environmental/outdoors/camps/",
     "topic": "camps"
    },
    {
     "label": "10 NYCRR 7-2.2 definitions (Cornell LII)",
     "url": "https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/new-york/10-NYCRR-7-2.2",
     "topic": "camps"
    },
    {
     "label": "NYC Health Code Article 48 (camps)",
     "url": "https://www.nyc.gov/assets/doh/downloads/pdf/about/healthcode/health-code-article48.pdf",
     "topic": "camps"
    },
    {
     "label": "Social Services Law §390-b (NY Senate)",
     "url": "https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/laws/SOS/390-B",
     "topic": "backgroundChecks"
    },
    {
     "label": "18 NYCRR 418-1.11 (Cornell LII)",
     "url": "https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/new-york/18-NYCRR-418-1.11",
     "topic": "medication"
    },
    {
     "label": "Social Services Law §413 (NY Senate)",
     "url": "https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/laws/SOS/413",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    },
    {
     "label": "Social Services Law §415 (NY Senate)",
     "url": "https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/laws/SOS/415",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    },
    {
     "label": "OCFS Child Protective Services",
     "url": "https://ocfs.ny.gov/programs/cps/",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    }
   ]
  },
  {
   "state_code": "NC",
   "state": "North Carolina",
   "checked": "October 2026",
   "page_url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/north-carolina",
   "child_care": {
    "agency": "North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE)",
    "agency_url": "https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Services/Licensing/Licensing-Requirements",
    "licensing": "DCDEE licenses child care centers and family child care homes. North Carolina's child care law covers regular care of three or more children under 13 for more than four hours a day by people who are not their relatives (G.S. 110-86). School-age programs and licensed summer day camps are licensed as centers under Section .2500 of the rules.",
    "school_age_exemption": "Programs operated by public schools are exempt. Seasonal recreational programs that run less than four consecutive months a year (summer day camps, typically May 15 to September 15) do not need a license, but must be licensed to serve children paid for by child care subsidy. After-school programs operating four hours a day or less are not required to be licensed. (G.S. 110-86; 10A NCAC 09 .2502; DCDEE guidance.)",
    "ratio_rule": "10A NCAC 09 .0713(a)",
    "ratios": [
     {
      "ages": "3 years",
      "children_per_adult": 15,
      "max_group": 25
     },
     {
      "ages": "4 years",
      "children_per_adult": 20,
      "max_group": 25
     },
     {
      "ages": "5 years",
      "children_per_adult": 25,
      "max_group": 25
     },
     {
      "ages": "School-age (6 and up)",
      "children_per_adult": 25,
      "max_group": 25
     }
    ],
    "ratio_3_year_olds": 15,
    "ratio_4_year_olds": 20,
    "ratio_school_age": 25,
    "max_group_school_age": 25,
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/north-carolina#licensing",
    "ratios_url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/north-carolina#ratios"
   },
   "camps": {
    "camp_license": "partly",
    "agency": "County health departments (sanitation permits under NC DHHS environmental health rules); DCDEE for camps that choose or need a summer day camp license",
    "agency_url": null,
    "summary": "North Carolina has no general youth camp license covering staffing or program safety. Summer camps that serve food or provide overnight lodging for pay need a sanitation permit and inspections from the local health department (15A NCAC 18A .1000; resident camps under .3600). Summer day camps running less than four consecutive months are exempt from DCDEE child care licensing unless they want to serve subsidized children, in which case they must be licensed as summer day camps (school-age children only).",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/north-carolina#camps"
   },
   "background_checks": {
    "summary": "Every child care provider (and household members 16 and older in home-based care) needs a DCDEE criminal background check qualification letter before starting work. The check covers federal and NC fingerprint databases, national and NC sex offender registries, an NC court records name check, the Responsible Individuals List, the Child Maltreatment Registry, and criminal, sex offender and abuse/neglect checks in any state lived in during the past five years. Letters are valid five years and must be renewed (G.S. 110-90.2; 10A NCAC 09 .2703). Unlicensed summer camps have no state background check requirement that we found.",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/north-carolina#background-checks"
   },
   "medication": {
    "summary": "No medicine, or even topical ointment, sunscreen or repellent, may be given without the parent's written authorization and written instructions. Prescriptions stay in the original pharmacy-labeled container, over-the-counter medicine stays in its original package labeled with the child's name (permission good for up to 30 days unless it is a standing authorization for chronic conditions or topicals), and every dose is recorded with the child's name, date, time, amount and the staff member's signature (10A NCAC 09 .0803). New staff get medication administration instruction during orientation (.1101).",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/north-carolina#medication"
   },
   "mandated_reporting": {
    "everyone_must_report": true,
    "summary": "Any person or institution who suspects a child is abused, neglected or dependent must report to the county Department of Social Services where the child lives or is found, by phone, in person or in writing (G.S. 7B-301). Separately, any adult who knows or should reasonably know a child is the victim of a violent or sexual offense or misdemeanor child abuse must immediately report to local law enforcement (G.S. 14-318.6).",
    "hotline": "No statewide hotline; call the county Department of Social Services and ask for CPS intake (911 in an emergency)",
    "hotline_url": "https://www.ncdhhs.gov/divisions/social-services/local-dss-directory",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/north-carolina#reporting"
   },
   "unverified": [
    "ncleg.gov (General Statutes 110-86, 110-90.2, 7B-301, 14-318.6) blocked automated access; statute details were taken from search results of the official text and from DCDEE and NCDHHS pages, not read directly.",
    "The public-school exemption and the four-hour rule are stated in DCDEE's Child Care Center Handbook chapter 16, which dates from about 2009; the 2026 summer day camp packet confirms the four-consecutive-month camp exemption.",
    "G.S. 7B-301 does not appear to set a time limit for the DSS report; G.S. 14-318.6 requires an immediate report to law enforcement.",
    "Whether camp sanitation permits apply to day camps that serve no food for pay was not confirmed."
   ],
   "sources": [
    {
     "label": "10A NCAC 09 .0713 (NC Office of Administrative Hearings)",
     "url": "http://reports.oah.state.nc.us/ncac/title%2010a%20-%20health%20and%20human%20services/chapter%2009%20-%20child%20care%20rules/10a%20ncac%2009%20.0713.pdf",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "Chapter 9 Child Care Rules, effective July 1, 2025 (DCDEE)",
     "url": "https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Portals/0/documents/pdf/C/Chapter_9_Child_Care_Rules_Effective_July_1_2025.pdf?ver=9gQO5ZV3KdVI8BanULluoA%3d%3d",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "DCDEE Licensing Requirements",
     "url": "https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Services/Licensing/Licensing-Requirements",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "DCDEE Summer Day Camp licensing packet (rev. 5/2026)",
     "url": "https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Portals/0/documents/pdf/S/summer_day_camp.pdf",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "DCDEE Child Care Center Handbook, ch. 16 School-Age Care",
     "url": "https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Portals/0/documents/pdf/C/center_chp16.pdf",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "15A NCAC 18A .1001 Sanitation of Summer Camps (definitions)",
     "url": "http://reports.oah.state.nc.us/ncac/title%2015a%20-%20environmental%20quality/chapter%2018%20-%20environmental%20health/subchapter%20a/15a%20ncac%2018a%20.1001.pdf",
     "topic": "camps"
    },
    {
     "label": "15A NCAC 18A .3601 Sanitation of Resident Camps (definitions)",
     "url": "http://reports.oah.state.nc.us/ncac/title%2015a%20-%20environmental%20quality/chapter%2018%20-%20environmental%20health/subchapter%20a/15a%20ncac%2018a%20.3601.pdf",
     "topic": "camps"
    },
    {
     "label": "DCDEE Criminal Background Checks - Basic Information",
     "url": "https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov/Home/DCDEE-Sections/Criminal-Background-Check-Unit/Basic-Information/dhhs-criminal-background-checks",
     "topic": "backgroundChecks"
    },
    {
     "label": "NCDHHS: About Child Abuse and Child Neglect",
     "url": "https://www.ncdhhs.gov/divisions/social-services/child-welfare-services/child-protective-services/about-child-abuse-and-child-neglect",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    },
    {
     "label": "NCDHHS Local DSS Directory",
     "url": "https://www.ncdhhs.gov/divisions/social-services/local-dss-directory",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    },
    {
     "label": "Child Welfare Information Gateway: Mandatory Reporting (May 2023)",
     "url": "https://www.childwelfare.gov/resources/mandatory-reporting-child-abuse-and-neglect/",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    }
   ]
  },
  {
   "state_code": "ND",
   "state": "North Dakota",
   "checked": "October 2026",
   "page_url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/north-dakota",
   "child_care": {
    "agency": "North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), Early Childhood Licensing",
    "agency_url": "https://www.hhs.nd.gov/cfs/early-childhood-services/child-care-licensing",
    "licensing": "A license is required to care for more than five children, or more than three under 24 months, in exchange for payment; smaller home providers may self-declare instead. License types are family child care, group child care (up to 30 children), child care centers (larger programs), preschools, and school-age child care programs for ages 5 through 11 (N.D.C.C. 50-11.1-02, 50-11.1-03). Programs run by a government entity self-certify compliance ('public approval') instead of getting a license.",
    "school_age_exemption": "Not considered early childhood services, so no license: care in a public or private school in grade 1 or above; approved school-based programs for children under 6; summer resident or day camps that serve no children under 6 for more than two weeks; sporting events, practices or physical activities supervised by an adult; short religious classes; and care of up to four hours while the parent is on the same premises (N.D.C.C. 50-11.1-02(6)).",
    "ratio_rule": "N.D. Admin. Code 75-03-10-08(2)(a) (child care centers); 75-03-11.1-09 (school-age child care programs)",
    "ratios": [
     {
      "ages": "3 years",
      "children_per_adult": 7,
      "max_group": 20
     },
     {
      "ages": "4 years",
      "children_per_adult": 10,
      "max_group": 25
     },
     {
      "ages": "5 years",
      "children_per_adult": 12,
      "max_group": 30
     },
     {
      "ages": "School-age (6 and up)",
      "children_per_adult": 20,
      "max_group": 40
     }
    ],
    "ratio_3_year_olds": 7,
    "ratio_4_year_olds": 10,
    "ratio_school_age": 20,
    "max_group_school_age": 40,
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/north-dakota#licensing",
    "ratios_url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/north-dakota#ratios"
   },
   "camps": {
    "camp_license": "no",
    "agency": null,
    "agency_url": null,
    "summary": "North Dakota has no youth camp licensing law that we could find. Summer resident or day camps are excluded from child care licensing as long as they serve no children under 6 for more than two weeks (N.D.C.C. 50-11.1-02(6)(g)); a camp that serves younger children longer than that may need a child care license.",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/north-dakota#camps"
   },
   "background_checks": {
    "summary": "Owners, staff, and volunteers or support staff who may be alone with children need a check approved before any unsupervised access: an FBI fingerprint check, national and state sex offender registry searches, state criminal history, ND child abuse and neglect records, and criminal, sex offender and abuse/neglect checks in any state lived in during the past five years. Center owners and staff must submit a fingerprint-based check at hire and at least every five years (N.D. Admin. Code 75-03-10-27, 75-03-10-28; N.D.C.C. 50-11.1-06.2). No camp-specific requirement was found.",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/north-dakota#background-checks"
   },
   "medication": {
    "summary": "Centers need written parent permission and proper instructions before giving any medicine; prescription medicine must come with the medical provider's written dosage and storage instructions and be labeled with the child's name and date. Medicine is stored out of children's reach (refrigerated medicine kept together in a spillproof container), and every dose, including over-the-counter, is logged with date, time, dosage, child's name and the staff member's name and kept in the child's record (N.D. Admin. Code 75-03-10-26(7)).",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/north-dakota#medication"
   },
   "mandated_reporting": {
    "everyone_must_report": false,
    "summary": "Listed professionals must report when they learn of suspected abuse or neglect through their work, including child care workers, schoolteachers, administrators and counselors, medical and mental health professionals, social workers, foster parents, law enforcement, clergy and child care licensors; anyone else may report (N.D.C.C. 50-25.1-03). Reports must be made immediately, orally or in writing, with a written follow-up within 48 hours if requested (50-25.1-04).",
    "hotline": "1-833-958-3500 (Child Abuse & Neglect Reporting Line, weekdays 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Central); call 911 if a child is in immediate danger",
    "hotline_url": "https://www.hhs.nd.gov/cfs/cps",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/north-dakota#reporting"
   },
   "unverified": [
    "The ND HHS page lists reporting-line hours of 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Central on weekdays and does not say how to report after hours other than calling 911 in an emergency.",
    "N.D.C.C. 50-11.1-02 defines a child care center as 19 or more children while 50-11.1-03 requires a center license for more than 30; the overlap with group child care (up to 30) was not resolved.",
    "No North Dakota youth camp licensing law was found; camps serving food may still need HHS Food and Lodging licenses (not confirmed for camps specifically)."
   ],
   "sources": [
    {
     "label": "N.D. Admin. Code ch. 75-03-10 (child care centers)",
     "url": "https://www.ndlegis.gov/information/acdata/pdf/75-03-10.pdf",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "N.D. Admin. Code ch. 75-03-11.1 (school-age child care)",
     "url": "https://www.ndlegis.gov/information/acdata/pdf/75-03-11.1.pdf",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "N.D.C.C. ch. 50-11.1 (early childhood services)",
     "url": "https://www.ndlegis.gov/cencode/t50c11-1.pdf",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "ND HHS Childcare Licensing",
     "url": "https://www.hhs.nd.gov/cfs/early-childhood-services/child-care-licensing",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "ND HHS Child Protection Program",
     "url": "https://www.hhs.nd.gov/cfs/cps",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    },
    {
     "label": "N.D.C.C. ch. 50-25.1",
     "url": "https://www.ndlegis.gov/cencode/t50c25-1.pdf",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    }
   ]
  },
  {
   "state_code": "OH",
   "state": "Ohio",
   "checked": "October 2026",
   "page_url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/ohio",
   "child_care": {
    "agency": "Ohio Department of Children and Youth (DCY)",
    "agency_url": "https://childrenandyouth.ohio.gov/for-providers/child-care-information",
    "licensing": "DCY licenses child care centers (care for seven or more children at one time), Type A and Type B family child care homes, and school-based preschool and school-age programs. Child care rules moved from the Department of Job and Family Services to DCY and were renumbered from OAC 5101:2 to 5180:2 (centers: Chapter 5180:2-12).",
    "school_age_exemption": "Child day camps (school-age children only, up to 12 hours a day and no more than 15 weeks in summer) are not licensed as child care; they register with DCY each year unless exempt under ORC 5104.21. Other licensing exemptions in ORC Chapter 5104: Not confirmed.",
    "ratio_rule": "OAC 5180:2-12-18, Appendix A (formerly 5101:2-12-18)",
    "ratios": [
     {
      "ages": "3 years",
      "children_per_adult": null,
      "max_group": null
     },
     {
      "ages": "4 years",
      "children_per_adult": null,
      "max_group": null
     },
     {
      "ages": "5 years",
      "children_per_adult": null,
      "max_group": null
     },
     {
      "ages": "School-age (6 and up)",
      "children_per_adult": null,
      "max_group": null
     }
    ],
    "ratio_3_year_olds": null,
    "ratio_4_year_olds": null,
    "ratio_school_age": null,
    "max_group_school_age": null,
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/ohio#licensing",
    "ratios_url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/ohio#ratios"
   },
   "camps": {
    "camp_license": "yes",
    "agency": "Ohio Department of Children and Youth (child day camp registration); local boards of health (resident camp permits under Ohio Department of Health rules)",
    "agency_url": "https://childrenandyouth.ohio.gov/for-providers/child-care-information",
    "summary": "Child day camps must register with DCY every year (by March 14) and pay a fee unless they meet an exemption in ORC 5104.21; camps that want to serve publicly funded children must also be accredited by the American Camp Association (or another DCY-approved body) and become DCY 'approved' day camps. Resident (overnight) camps need an annual permit from the local board of health and inspections under OAC Chapter 3701-25.",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/ohio#camps"
   },
   "background_checks": {
    "summary": "Center owners, administrators, employees and child care staff submit a request in the Ohio Professional Registry and get BCI and FBI fingerprints; DCY then reviews five checks: BCI, FBI, national sex offender registry, Ohio sex offender registry, and Ohio child abuse and neglect records (SACWIS). Checks must be redone every five years, after a six-month gap in child care work, or when joining a new program (new fingerprints not needed then). Registered day camps must run BCI and FBI checks before staff start and the camp administrator reviews results; approved day camps go through the full five-part DCY review.",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/ohio#background-checks"
   },
   "medication": {
    "summary": "Under the 2021 center rule, parents complete and sign a state 'Request for Administration of Medication' form for prescription and non-prescription medicine; a physician, dentist, APRN or PA must also sign instructions unless the medicine is in its original container with a current pharmacy or manufacturer label. The child must have had at least one earlier dose before the center gives any (except listed emergency medicines), medicine is stored out of reach in its labeled original container, each dose is documented on the form right away, and forms are good for up to 12 months (OAC 5101:2-12-25). This rule was replaced as OAC 5180:2-12-25 effective July 1, 2026.",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/ohio#medication"
   },
   "mandated_reporting": {
    "everyone_must_report": false,
    "summary": "Ohio law lists required reporters by profession, including child care workers and day care staff, school employees and teachers, health professionals, clergy, social workers and children services staff (ORC 2151.421). Ohio is also among the states whose list covers directors, employees and volunteers of organized activities for children such as camps and recreation centers. Reports go to county children services or law enforcement.",
    "hotline": "855-642-4453 (855-O-H-CHILD)",
    "hotline_url": "https://childrenandyouth.ohio.gov/for-families/children-services-foster-kinship-adoption/report-abuse-neglect",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/ohio#reporting"
   },
   "unverified": [
    "Center staff/child ratios and group sizes (Appendix A to OAC 5180:2-12-18) could not be confirmed: codes.ohio.gov, the Register of Ohio and the ODJFS eManuals site refused connections, and Cornell's copy of the appendix is missing. DCY's rule tracker says the rule has not changed since the transfer from 5101:2-12-18 (effective Oct. 29, 2021).",
    "Medication rule 5180:2-12-25 was rescinded and replaced effective July 1, 2026; the summary reflects the 2021 version (5101:2-12-25) and the new text was not reviewed.",
    "ORC 2151.421 (who must report and the 'immediately' timing) and ORC 5104.02/5104.21 (licensing and day camp exemptions) could not be loaded from codes.ohio.gov; mandated reporter categories come from DCY's page and the federal Child Welfare Information Gateway (May 2023).",
    "Whether resident camps also need any DCY registration, and which day camps are exempt from registration under ORC 5104.21, was not confirmed."
   ],
   "sources": [
    {
     "label": "DCY Child Care Center Licensing - Getting Started (06/2026)",
     "url": "https://dam.assets.ohio.gov/image/upload/childrenandyouth.ohio.gov/For%20Partners%20and%20Providers/Licensing%20Compliance/01316-_Child_Care_Licensing_Getting_Started_06-2026.pdf",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "OAC 5101:2-12-18 group size and ratios (Cornell LII)",
     "url": "https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/ohio/Ohio-Admin-Code-5101-2-12-18",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "DCY Rule Number Tracker (5101:2 to 5180:2)",
     "url": "https://dam.assets.ohio.gov/image/upload/childrenandyouth.ohio.gov/For%20Partners/Rules%20and%20Resources/2025/Rule_Number_Tracker.pdf",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "DCY Child Care Information",
     "url": "https://childrenandyouth.ohio.gov/for-providers/child-care-information",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "DCY Child Care Day Camps - Getting Started (rev. 08/2026)",
     "url": "https://dam.assets.ohio.gov/image/upload/childrenandyouth.ohio.gov/For%20Partners%20and%20Providers/Licensing%20Compliance/01314_Day_Camp_Licensing_Getting_Started_6.2026.pdf",
     "topic": "camps"
    },
    {
     "label": "OAC 3701-25-01 resident camp definitions (Cornell LII)",
     "url": "https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/ohio/Ohio-Admin-Code-3701-25-01",
     "topic": "camps"
    },
    {
     "label": "OAC 3701-25-02 board of health permits (Cornell LII)",
     "url": "https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/ohio/Ohio-Admin-Code-3701-25-02",
     "topic": "camps"
    },
    {
     "label": "DCY Background Checks",
     "url": "https://childrenandyouth.ohio.gov/for-providers/resources/background-checks",
     "topic": "backgroundChecks"
    },
    {
     "label": "DCY Background Check and Staff File Requirements for ECE Programs",
     "url": "https://dam.assets.ohio.gov/image/upload/childrenandyouth.ohio.gov/For%20Partners%20and%20Providers/Rules%20and%20Resources/2026/Background_Check_and_Staff_File_Requirements_for_ECE_Programs.pdf",
     "topic": "backgroundChecks"
    },
    {
     "label": "OAC 5101:2-12-25 (2021 version, Cornell LII)",
     "url": "https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/ohio/Ohio-Admin-Code-5101-2-12-25",
     "topic": "medication"
    },
    {
     "label": "DCY Report Abuse and Neglect",
     "url": "https://childrenandyouth.ohio.gov/for-families/children-services-foster-kinship-adoption/report-abuse-neglect",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    },
    {
     "label": "DCY Resource Guide (hotline)",
     "url": "https://dam.assets.ohio.gov/image/upload/childrenandyouth.ohio.gov/For%20Providers/Resource_Guide.pdf",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    },
    {
     "label": "Child Welfare Information Gateway: Mandatory Reporting (May 2023)",
     "url": "https://www.childwelfare.gov/resources/mandatory-reporting-child-abuse-and-neglect/",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    }
   ]
  },
  {
   "state_code": "OK",
   "state": "Oklahoma",
   "checked": "October 2026",
   "page_url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/oklahoma",
   "child_care": {
    "agency": "Oklahoma Human Services (OKDHS), Child Care Services – Licensing",
    "agency_url": "https://oklahoma.gov/okdhs/services/child-care-services/child-care-licensing.html",
    "licensing": "OKDHS licenses child care centers (open 30 or more hours a week), part-day programs (more than 15 but under 30 hours a week), out-of-school time programs, day camps, drop-in programs, programs for sick children, and family and large family child care homes (10 O.S. §402; OAC 340:110-3-275). A program may not take children until OKDHS issues its permit or license (OAC 340:110-3-276).",
    "school_age_exemption": "10 O.S. §403 exempts, among others: programs run by a public school district during typical school hours for children 3 and up; summer youth camps and summer or after-school programs for children 4 and up that are accredited by a national standard-setting or church camp accrediting body, or chartered by or affiliated with a national nonprofit; single-activity programs such as sports, art, music, dance, scouts and 4-H; programs open 15 or fewer hours a week, fewer than 10 weeks a year, or under 8 hours a day in summer; school-age-only center programs of 21 or fewer hours a week in counties under 100,000 people; drop-in programs with parents on site; and programs where children are not enrolled and come and go freely.",
    "ratio_rule": "OAC 340:110-3-286 and OAC 340 Appendix GG (Ratios and Group Sizes)",
    "ratios": [
     {
      "ages": "3 years",
      "children_per_adult": 12,
      "max_group": 24
     },
     {
      "ages": "4 years",
      "children_per_adult": 15,
      "max_group": 30
     },
     {
      "ages": "5 years",
      "children_per_adult": 20,
      "max_group": 40
     },
     {
      "ages": "School-age (5 and older)",
      "children_per_adult": 20,
      "max_group": 40
     }
    ],
    "ratio_3_year_olds": 12,
    "ratio_4_year_olds": 15,
    "ratio_school_age": 20,
    "max_group_school_age": 40,
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/oklahoma#licensing",
    "ratios_url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/oklahoma#ratios"
   },
   "camps": {
    "camp_license": "partly",
    "agency": "Oklahoma Human Services (OKDHS), Child Care Services (licensed day camps)",
    "agency_url": "https://oklahoma.gov/okdhs/services/child-care-services/child-care-licensing.html",
    "summary": "OKDHS licenses 'day camps' (run during school breaks, up to 12 hours a day, for children 5 and up who have attended kindergarten, outdoors at least half the day) unless the camp is exempt under 10 O.S. §403, for example accredited or national-nonprofit-affiliated camps, camps running under 10 weeks a year or under 8 hours a day in summer, and single-activity camps; summer resident (overnight) camps are exempt from child care licensing. A new law, HB 1675 (effective Nov. 1, 2026), requires all youth camps (day and overnight), camp facilities and outdoor programs to complete a severe-weather hazard assessment and emergency action plan by Jan. 1, 2027, file them with the county emergency management director, keep two weather-alert methods (one that doesn't rely on cell service), train staff every year, and give parents written notice of site hazards.",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/oklahoma#camps"
   },
   "background_checks": {
    "summary": "Owners, staff, and adults living in the facility need an OKDHS criminal history review before hire or unsupervised access: Oklahoma court records search, fingerprint-based national (FBI) check, sex offender registry, the Restricted Registry (Joshua's List), child abuse and neglect registries for any state lived in during the past 5 years, out-of-state criminal and sex offender checks when applicable, and two state caregiver abuse registries (10 O.S. §404.1; OAC 340:110-3-282). The review (without new fingerprints) is repeated every 5 years. Camps that are exempt from licensing are not covered by these licensing checks.",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/oklahoma#background-checks"
   },
   "medication": {
    "summary": "Parents supply the medicine and sign permission for each medication before it is given (up to 12 months at a time for chronic conditions). Only designated staff give it, from the original container labeled with the child's full name, following the label or a physician's instructions, never after it expires; each dose is logged right away, and medicines are kept out of children's reach except emergency medicines like epinephrine pens and inhalers, which stay near the child (OAC 340:110-3-295).",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/oklahoma#medication"
   },
   "mandated_reporting": {
    "everyone_must_report": true,
    "summary": "Every person who has reason to believe a child under 18 is being abused or neglected must report it immediately to OKDHS through the statewide hotline (10A O.S. §1-2-101(B), as amended effective Nov. 1, 2025). Knowingly failing to report promptly is a crime, and school employees must also notify local law enforcement.",
    "hotline": "1-800-522-3511",
    "hotline_url": "https://oklahoma.gov/okdhs/services/reportabuse.html",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/oklahoma#reporting"
   },
   "unverified": [
    "Statute text for 10 O.S. §§402–404.1 was read from the copy reprinted in OKDHS Pub. 14-05 (marked 'amended with 2023 legislation'); the official OSCN statutes site could not be reached to check for 2024–2026 amendments.",
    "No separate state license or permit for overnight (resident) youth camps was found; this was not confirmed with the Oklahoma State Department of Health.",
    "HB 1675 lets each county emergency management director adopt rules, timelines and variances; no county rules were reviewed. The governor's office lists the signing as August 12, 2026, while the Legislature's bill history shows approval on May 11, 2026 (the August event appears to be ceremonial)."
   ],
   "sources": [
    {
     "label": "OKDHS Licensing Requirements for Child Care Programs, Pub. 14-05 (effective 11/1/2025)",
     "url": "https://oklahoma.gov/content/dam/ok/en/okdhs/documents/okdhs-publication-library/14-05_LicensingRequirementsforChildCarePrograms_ccs_07312025.pdf",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "OKDHS child care licensing requirements page",
     "url": "https://oklahoma.gov/okdhs/services/child-care-services/child-care-licensing/licensing-requirements.html",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "HB 1675 (2026), enrolled text",
     "url": "https://www.oklegislature.gov/cf_pdf/2025-26%20ENR/hB/HB1675%20ENR.PDF",
     "topic": "camps"
    },
    {
     "label": "Governor's office: camp safety bill signed",
     "url": "https://oklahoma.gov/governor/newsroom/newsroom/2026/governor-stitt-signs-camp-safety-bill-to-help-protect-oklahoma-kids1.html",
     "topic": "camps"
    },
    {
     "label": "OKDHS Report Abuse page",
     "url": "https://oklahoma.gov/okdhs/services/reportabuse.html",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    },
    {
     "label": "HB 2798 (2025), amending 10A O.S. §1-2-101, enrolled text",
     "url": "https://www.oklegislature.gov/cf_pdf/2025-26%20ENR/hB/HB2798%20ENR.PDF",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    },
    {
     "label": "Child Welfare Information Gateway: Mandatory Reporting of Child Abuse and Neglect",
     "url": "https://www.childwelfare.gov/resources/mandatory-reporting-child-abuse-and-neglect/",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    }
   ]
  },
  {
   "state_code": "OR",
   "state": "Oregon",
   "checked": "October 2026",
   "page_url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/oregon",
   "child_care": {
    "agency": "Oregon Department of Early Learning and Care (DELC), Child Care Licensing Division",
    "agency_url": "https://www.oregon.gov/delc/providers/pages/certified-center.aspx",
    "licensing": "DELC certifies child care centers serving children from 6 weeks through age 12 (OAR 414-305) and school-age-only centers (OAR 414-310), and licenses family child care homes. Certain license-exempt preschool and school-age programs must still be 'recorded' with DELC.",
    "school_age_exemption": "Exempt from certification (OAR 414-305-0120): programs run by a school district, charter school, city, county or other government agency; single-enrichment activities such as sports practice, lessons or tutoring where no child attends more than 8 hours a week; group athletic or social activities of an organized club; care given only during summer or holiday breaks for fewer than 70 days a year; and youth development activities for school-age children when school is out. Programs offering youth development activities to school-age children must register as 'recorded programs': all staff and volunteers 18 and older enroll in the Central Background Registry and the program posts a notice for parents.",
    "ratio_rule": "OAR 414-305-0400 (Table 3A)",
    "ratios": [
     {
      "ages": "3 years",
      "children_per_adult": 10,
      "max_group": 20
     },
     {
      "ages": "4 years",
      "children_per_adult": 10,
      "max_group": 20
     },
     {
      "ages": "5 years (not yet kindergarten-eligible)",
      "children_per_adult": 10,
      "max_group": 20
     },
     {
      "ages": "School-age (kindergarten-eligible and up)",
      "children_per_adult": 15,
      "max_group": 30
     }
    ],
    "ratio_3_year_olds": 10,
    "ratio_4_year_olds": 10,
    "ratio_school_age": 15,
    "max_group_school_age": 30,
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/oregon#licensing",
    "ratios_url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/oregon#ratios"
   },
   "camps": {
    "camp_license": "yes",
    "agency": "Oregon Health Authority, Public Health Division (or a delegated county health department)",
    "agency_url": "https://www.oregon.gov/oha/ph/healthyenvironments/recreation/poolslodging/pages/index.aspx",
    "summary": "Operating an 'organizational camp' requires a yearly license from the Oregon Health Authority or a delegated county health department; licenses expire Dec. 31 (OAR 333-030-0020). State law defines organizational camps to include youth, scout, summer, day, nature, survival and athletic camps, including those run by religious, school or community groups (ORS 446.310), and the rules cover sanitation, water, food service and camp health care. Separately, a school-age day program may need to be recorded with DELC or, if it works as child care, certified.",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/oregon#camps"
   },
   "background_checks": {
    "summary": "The operator, all center staff, and anyone 18 or older who may have unsupervised access to children must be enrolled in DELC's Central Background Registry (CBR) before working (OAR 414-305-0310). The CBR check covers Oregon State Police records, ODHS child protective services records, an FBI fingerprint check and sex offender registries, plus out-of-state checks for anyone who lived elsewhere in the past 5 years; enrollment expires every 5 years (OAR 414-061-0090). Recorded (license-exempt) school-age and preschool programs must also enroll staff and volunteers 18 and older. No separate background check rule for organizational camps was found.",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/oregon#background-checks"
   },
   "medication": {
    "summary": "Before giving any prescription or over-the-counter medicine, a center needs signed, dated parent authorization (up to 12 months for chronic conditions; phone permission is allowed for a single dose of a non-prescription medicine). Medicine must be in its original labeled container (prescriptions labeled with the child's name), not expired, given as labeled unless a physician writes otherwise; each dose is logged right away with any side effects, parents are told daily, and medicines are kept out of children's reach (OAR 414-305-1030).",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/oregon#medication"
   },
   "mandated_reporting": {
    "everyone_must_report": false,
    "summary": "Oregon lists 'public or private officials' who must report immediately (ORS 419B.005, 419B.010), including school employees, registered or certified child care providers, operators of recorded programs, paid coaches and athletic trainers, and employees of organizations providing child-related services such as youth groups, scouts, and summer or day camps. Reports go to ODHS or law enforcement.",
    "hotline": "1-855-503-7233 (855-503-SAFE)",
    "hotline_url": "https://www.oregon.gov/odhs/report-abuse/Pages/mandatory-reporting.aspx",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/oregon#reporting"
   },
   "unverified": [
    "The Oregon Legislature's ORS website could not be reached; ORS 446.310 and 419B.005 wording was checked on the oregon.public.law mirror and against ODHS and OAR text.",
    "Whether a day camp held in an ordinary building (rather than a camp site) needs an organizational camp license is not confirmed; check with the county health department.",
    "No staff background-check requirement was found in the organizational camp rules (OAR 333-030); not confirmed.",
    "DELC's rule PDFs say they may lag the Secretary of State's official OAR text; the center rulebook lists rule updates effective 9/1/2026."
   ],
   "sources": [
    {
     "label": "DELC Rules for Certified Child Care Centers, CCLD-0084 (OAR 414-305)",
     "url": "https://www.oregon.gov/delc/providers/CCLD_Library/CCLD-0084-Rules-for-Certified-Child-Care-Centers-EN.pdf",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "OAR 414-305-0400 (Cornell LII)",
     "url": "https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/oregon/Or-Admin-Code-SS-414-305-0400",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "DELC Rules for Certified School-Age Centers, CCLD-0542 (OAR 414-310)",
     "url": "https://www.oregon.gov/delc/providers/CCLD_Library/CCLD-0542-Rules-for-Certified-School-Age-Child-Care-Centers-EN.pdf",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "DELC Recorded Programs",
     "url": "https://www.oregon.gov/delc/providers/Pages/recorded-programs.aspx",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "OAR 333-030-0020 Licensing Required (Cornell LII)",
     "url": "https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/oregon/Or-Admin-Code-SS-333-030-0020",
     "topic": "camps"
    },
    {
     "label": "OAR 333-030-0015 Definitions, incl. day camp (Cornell LII)",
     "url": "https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/oregon/Or-Admin-Code-SS-333-030-0015",
     "topic": "camps"
    },
    {
     "label": "ORS 446.310 definitions (oregon.public.law mirror)",
     "url": "https://oregon.public.law/statutes/ors_446.310",
     "topic": "camps"
    },
    {
     "label": "OHA Pools and Lodging (organizational camps)",
     "url": "https://www.oregon.gov/oha/ph/healthyenvironments/recreation/poolslodging/pages/index.aspx",
     "topic": "camps"
    },
    {
     "label": "DELC Central Background Registry",
     "url": "https://www.oregon.gov/delc/providers/pages/cbr.aspx",
     "topic": "backgroundChecks"
    },
    {
     "label": "OAR 414-061-0090 (Cornell LII)",
     "url": "https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/oregon/Or-Admin-Code-SS-414-061-0090",
     "topic": "backgroundChecks"
    },
    {
     "label": "ODHS: Reporting Child Abuse in Oregon / Mandatory Reporting",
     "url": "https://www.oregon.gov/odhs/report-abuse/Pages/mandatory-reporting.aspx",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    },
    {
     "label": "ODHS: How to Report Abuse or Neglect",
     "url": "https://www.oregon.gov/odhs/report-abuse/pages/default.aspx",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    },
    {
     "label": "ORS 419B.005 (oregon.public.law mirror)",
     "url": "https://oregon.public.law/statutes/ors_419B.005",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    }
   ]
  },
  {
   "state_code": "PA",
   "state": "Pennsylvania",
   "checked": "October 2026",
   "page_url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/pennsylvania",
   "child_care": {
    "agency": "Pennsylvania Department of Human Services, Office of Child Development and Early Learning (OCDEL), Bureau of Certification Services",
    "agency_url": "https://www.pa.gov/agencies/dhs/departments-offices/ocdel-info/ocdel-bureau-certification-services.html",
    "licensing": "A DHS certificate of compliance is required for child care centers (7 or more children), group child care homes and family child care homes (4 to 6 children) caring for children 15 and younger for part of a 24-hour day, including before- and after-school care in public or private, for-profit or nonprofit facilities (55 Pa. Code §3270.3).",
    "school_age_exemption": "Under an OCDEL policy statement (55 Pa. Code §3270.3a), part-day school-age programs for children in kindergarten through age 15 don't need certification if they run fewer than 90 consecutive days a year (most summer camps), operate 2 hours or less a day on 3 or fewer days a week, have a single focus such as basketball or art, are drop-in programs where children come and go, or are PDE-licensed or approved tutoring programs. A certified center that adds school-age children in summer doesn't qualify, and care during instruction hours in nonpublic schools is also exempt. OCDEL restated these rules for school-age programs in school buildings in Announcement C-26-01 (June 2026).",
    "ratio_rule": "55 Pa. Code §3270.51",
    "ratios": [
     {
      "ages": "3 years",
      "children_per_adult": 10,
      "max_group": 20
     },
     {
      "ages": "4 years",
      "children_per_adult": 10,
      "max_group": 20
     },
     {
      "ages": "5 years (before kindergarten)",
      "children_per_adult": 10,
      "max_group": 20
     },
     {
      "ages": "Young school-age (kindergarten through 3rd grade)",
      "children_per_adult": 12,
      "max_group": 24
     },
     {
      "ages": "Older school-age (4th grade through age 15)",
      "children_per_adult": 15,
      "max_group": 30
     }
    ],
    "ratio_3_year_olds": 10,
    "ratio_4_year_olds": 10,
    "ratio_school_age": 12,
    "max_group_school_age": 24,
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/pennsylvania#licensing",
    "ratios_url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/pennsylvania#ratios"
   },
   "camps": {
    "camp_license": "partly",
    "agency": "Pennsylvania Department of Health or the local (county or municipal) health department, for organized camp sanitation permits",
    "agency_url": null,
    "summary": "Pennsylvania has no state program license for youth camps. An 'organized camp' (an outdoor group-living program run for 5 or more consecutive days) and campgrounds need a yearly sanitation permit covering water, sewage and toilets from the Department of Health or local health department (28 Pa. Code §§19.1, 19.11). School-age day camps (kindergarten and up) running fewer than 90 consecutive days are usually exempt from child care certification, but that exemption doesn't cover preschool-age children; camp employees and volunteers still need child abuse clearances.",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/pennsylvania#camps"
   },
   "background_checks": {
    "summary": "Under the Child Protective Services Law, employees of child care and of any program, activity or service where they are responsible for children need three clearances: PA child abuse history, PA State Police criminal record, and an FBI fingerprint check, renewed every 60 months. Certified child care staff and volunteers also need a National Sex Offender Registry check and out-of-state checks if they lived outside PA in the past 5 years. Adult volunteers in youth programs need the child abuse and State Police clearances; the FBI check is needed only if they haven't lived in PA for the full past 10 years (otherwise a signed statement). Provisional hiring for up to 45 days is allowed under set conditions.",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/pennsylvania#background-checks"
   },
   "medication": {
    "summary": "Centers must reasonably accommodate medication a child needs for a special need but are not required to give other medication. When they do: original container labeled with the medication and child's name, prescriber's written instructions for prescriptions (the label counts), written parent consent, locked or out-of-reach storage, and a medication log with dose, date, time and staff initials (55 Pa. Code §3270.133). Staff complete medication administration training within 90 days of hire (§3270.31(f)).",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/pennsylvania#medication"
   },
   "mandated_reporting": {
    "everyone_must_report": false,
    "summary": "Mandated reporters include school employees, child care employees with direct contact with children, and anyone, paid or unpaid, who as an integral part of a regularly scheduled program, activity or service is responsible for a child's welfare or has direct contact with children (23 Pa.C.S. §6311). They must report immediately to ChildLine by phone or online, then notify the person in charge of their organization.",
    "hotline": "1-800-932-0313 (ChildLine)",
    "hotline_url": "https://www.pa.gov/services/dhs/report-child-abuse-or-neglect-as-a-mandated-reporter",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/pennsylvania#reporting"
   },
   "unverified": [
    "The Pennsylvania Legislature's statutes site could not be reached; Child Protective Services Law details come from DHS Keep Kids Safe pages and FAQs (dated 10/01/2026), not the statute text.",
    "Whether the CPSL term 'program, activity or service' names youth and recreational camps expressly was not confirmed from the statute text.",
    "No current pa.gov Department of Health page on organized camp permits was found (agencyUrl left null); several counties issue these permits locally.",
    "55 Pa. Code §3270.3a is a statement of policy rather than a binding regulation; OCDEL Announcement C-26-01 (June 2026) restates it."
   ],
   "sources": [
    {
     "label": "55 Pa. Code §3270.51 (ratios)",
     "url": "https://www.pacodeandbulletin.gov/Display/pacode?file=/secure/pacode/data/055/chapter3270/s3270.51.html",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "55 Pa. Code §3270.4 (definitions)",
     "url": "https://www.pacodeandbulletin.gov/Display/pacode?file=/secure/pacode/data/055/chapter3270/s3270.4.html",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "55 Pa. Code §3270.3a (school-age exemptions)",
     "url": "https://www.pacodeandbulletin.gov/Display/pacode?file=/secure/pacode/data/055/chapter3270/s3270.3a.html",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "OCDEL Announcement C-26-01 (June 10, 2026)",
     "url": "https://www.pakeys.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/FINAL-OCDEL_C-26-01-Applicability-of-Regulations-Accessible.pdf",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "28 Pa. Code §19.11 (organized camp permit)",
     "url": "https://www.pacodeandbulletin.gov/Display/pacode?file=/secure/pacode/data/028/chapter19/s19.11.html",
     "topic": "camps"
    },
    {
     "label": "28 Pa. Code §19.1 (definitions)",
     "url": "https://www.pacodeandbulletin.gov/Display/pacode?file=/secure/pacode/data/028/chapter19/s19.1.html",
     "topic": "camps"
    },
    {
     "label": "PA DHS: Child Abuse Clearances",
     "url": "https://www.pa.gov/en/agencies/dhs/resources/keep-kids-safe/child-abuse-clearances.html",
     "topic": "backgroundChecks"
    },
    {
     "label": "PA DHS FAQ: Employees Having Contact with Children (10/01/2026)",
     "url": "https://www.pa.gov/content/dam/copapwp-pagov/en/dhs/documents/keepkidssafe/clearances/documents/kks-faq-employees.pdf",
     "topic": "backgroundChecks"
    },
    {
     "label": "PA DHS FAQ: Certified Child Care Providers (10/01/2026)",
     "url": "https://www.pa.gov/content/dam/copapwp-pagov/en/dhs/documents/keepkidssafe/clearances/documents/kks-faq-child-care-providers.pdf",
     "topic": "backgroundChecks"
    },
    {
     "label": "PA DHS FAQ: Volunteers",
     "url": "https://www.pa.gov/content/dam/copapwp-pagov/en/dhs/documents/keepkidssafe/clearances/documents/kks-faq-volunteers.pdf",
     "topic": "backgroundChecks"
    },
    {
     "label": "55 Pa. Code §3270.133",
     "url": "https://www.pacodeandbulletin.gov/Display/pacode?file=/secure/pacode/data/055/chapter3270/s3270.133.html",
     "topic": "medication"
    },
    {
     "label": "55 Pa. Code §3270.31",
     "url": "https://www.pacodeandbulletin.gov/Display/pacode?file=/secure/pacode/data/055/chapter3270/s3270.31.html",
     "topic": "medication"
    },
    {
     "label": "PA DHS: Report as a Mandated Reporter",
     "url": "https://www.pa.gov/services/dhs/report-child-abuse-or-neglect-as-a-mandated-reporter",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    },
    {
     "label": "PA DHS Mandated Reporters FAQ",
     "url": "https://www.pa.gov/content/dam/copapwp-pagov/en/dhs/documents/keepkidssafe/clearances/documents/FAQ_Mandated%20Reporter.pdf",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    },
    {
     "label": "Child Welfare Information Gateway: Mandatory Reporting of Child Abuse and Neglect",
     "url": "https://www.childwelfare.gov/resources/mandatory-reporting-child-abuse-and-neglect/",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    }
   ]
  },
  {
   "state_code": "RI",
   "state": "Rhode Island",
   "checked": "October 2026",
   "page_url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/rhode-island",
   "child_care": {
    "agency": "Rhode Island Department of Human Services (DHS), Office of Child Care Licensing",
    "agency_url": "https://dhs.ri.gov",
    "licensing": "DHS licenses child care centers and school-age programs under one regulation (218-RICR-70-00-1, amended effective July 7, 2026), plus family and group family child care homes (218-RICR-70-00-2 and -7). New programs apply through the RISES online system, complete DHS orientation training, and start on a 6-month provisional license.",
    "school_age_exemption": null,
    "ratio_rule": "218-RICR-70-00-1 §1.11(B)",
    "ratios": [
     {
      "ages": "3 years",
      "children_per_adult": 9,
      "max_group": 18
     },
     {
      "ages": "4 years",
      "children_per_adult": 10,
      "max_group": 20
     },
     {
      "ages": "5 years (not yet in kindergarten)",
      "children_per_adult": 12,
      "max_group": 24
     },
     {
      "ages": "School-age (kindergarten through age 15)",
      "children_per_adult": 13,
      "max_group": 26
     }
    ],
    "ratio_3_year_olds": 9,
    "ratio_4_year_olds": 10,
    "ratio_school_age": 13,
    "max_group_school_age": 26,
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/rhode-island#licensing",
    "ratios_url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/rhode-island#ratios"
   },
   "camps": {
    "camp_license": "yes",
    "agency": "Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH)",
    "agency_url": "https://rules.sos.ri.gov/regulations/part/216-50-10-3",
    "summary": "RIDOH's recreational facility rules define youth camps as day or residential camps with 10 or more campers and set sanitation standards for them (water, sewage, toilets, handwashing, showers for residential camps); a RIDOH license is required to operate a recreational facility (216-RICR-50-10-3). These are environmental health rules, not a program or staffing license; no separate RI youth camp program license was found.",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/rhode-island#camps"
   },
   "background_checks": {
    "summary": "Every employee and volunteer working directly with children must complete a DHS comprehensive background check before starting and every 5 years: state and national criminal and sex offender registry checks (fingerprints for adults), a DCYF child abuse and neglect clearance, and out-of-state checks if the person lived outside Rhode Island in the past 5 years. Staff and volunteers under 18 need only the child abuse and neglect registry check (218-RICR-70-00-1 §§1.6, 1.12(A)).",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/rhode-island#background-checks"
   },
   "medication": {
    "summary": "No medication, prescription or over-the-counter, is given without written parent permission and a written order from a physician, PA or nurse practitioner (the pharmacy label can serve) in the original container. The program administrator or designee gives medications when no nurse is on site, the parent gives the first dose, every dose is logged, and medications are stored locked and labeled; sunscreen, insect repellent and diaper cream need parent consent only (218-RICR-70-00-1 §1.9(C)).",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/rhode-island#medication"
   },
   "mandated_reporting": {
    "everyone_must_report": true,
    "summary": "Any person who has reasonable cause to know or suspect that a child has been abused or neglected must report it to the DCYF Child Protective Services hotline within 24 hours (R.I. Gen. Laws §40-11-3; 214-RICR-20-00-1 §1.6). Licensed programs must also notify the DHS licensing unit right after reporting if the incident happened at the program.",
    "hotline": "1-800-742-4453 (1-800-RI-CHILD)",
    "hotline_url": "https://rules.sos.ri.gov/regulations/part/214-20-00-1",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/rhode-island#reporting"
   },
   "unverified": [
    "Which school-age, recreation or camp programs are exempt from DHS child care licensing is not confirmed; the Rhode Island Legislature's statutes site (R.I. Gen. Laws ch. 42-12.5) could not be reached.",
    "The dhs.ri.gov and dcyf.ri.gov websites block automated access, so those pages (agency URL, background check page) could not be checked to load; the background check URL is the one printed in the DHS regulation.",
    "Whether youth day camps must hold a RIDOH recreational facility license is not fully confirmed: the rule sets youth camp standards, but its license requirement refers to 'recreation facility or use', defined to include camping areas.",
    "R.I. Gen. Laws ch. 40-13.2 (Certification of Child Care and Youth Serving Agency Workers) may impose background checks on camps and other youth-serving agencies; its text could not be reached.",
    "A 2024 Rhode Island public law (P.L. 2024 law24349) came up in a search about youth camps but could not be retrieved, so its subject and any camp requirements are unknown."
   ],
   "sources": [
    {
     "label": "218-RICR-70-00-1 Child Care Center and School Age Program Regulations for Licensure",
     "url": "https://rules.sos.ri.gov/regulations/part/218-70-00-1",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "216-RICR-50-10-3 Licensing of Recreational Facilities and Beaches",
     "url": "https://rules.sos.ri.gov/regulations/part/216-50-10-3",
     "topic": "camps"
    },
    {
     "label": "RI DHS background check page (cited in the regulation)",
     "url": "https://dhs.ri.gov/programs-and-services/child-care/child-care-providers/background-checks",
     "topic": "backgroundChecks"
    },
    {
     "label": "214-RICR-20-00-1 Child Protective Services (§1.6 Reporting)",
     "url": "https://rules.sos.ri.gov/regulations/part/214-20-00-1",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    },
    {
     "label": "Child Welfare Information Gateway: Mandatory Reporting of Child Abuse and Neglect",
     "url": "https://www.childwelfare.gov/resources/mandatory-reporting-child-abuse-and-neglect/",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    }
   ]
  },
  {
   "state_code": "SC",
   "state": "South Carolina",
   "checked": "October 2026",
   "page_url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/south-carolina",
   "child_care": {
    "agency": "South Carolina Department of Social Services (DSS), Division of Early Care and Education – Child Care Licensing",
    "agency_url": "https://www.scchildcare.org",
    "licensing": "DSS licenses private child care centers (13 or more children) and group child care homes (7 to 12 children); government-run centers get DSS 'approval', and church-run centers that take no public child care money and family child care homes (6 or fewer) are 'registered' (S.C. Code §§63-13-20, 63-13-1010). State law defines childcare as care for more than 4 but less than 24 hours a day on more than two days a week.",
    "school_age_exemption": "S.C. Code §63-13-20(4) excludes schools operating solely for education in grade 1 and up; 5-year-old kindergarten; programs of 4 hours a day or less for children under school age; school vacation or holiday day camps run in sessions under 3 weeks (unless children can enroll in back-to-back sessions totaling more than 3 weeks); summer resident camps; and vacation Bible schools. Because 'childcare' means care for more than 4 hours a day on more than two days a week, school-age programs open 4 hours a day or less appear to fall outside licensing; confirm with DSS.",
    "ratio_rule": "S.C. Code Ann. Regs. 114-504(B)",
    "ratios": [
     {
      "ages": "3 years",
      "children_per_adult": 12,
      "max_group": null
     },
     {
      "ages": "4 years",
      "children_per_adult": 17,
      "max_group": null
     },
     {
      "ages": "5 years",
      "children_per_adult": 20,
      "max_group": null
     },
     {
      "ages": "School-age (6 to 12 years)",
      "children_per_adult": 23,
      "max_group": null
     }
    ],
    "ratio_3_year_olds": 12,
    "ratio_4_year_olds": 17,
    "ratio_school_age": 23,
    "max_group_school_age": null,
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/south-carolina#licensing",
    "ratios_url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/south-carolina#ratios"
   },
   "camps": {
    "camp_license": "no",
    "agency": "South Carolina Department of Social Services (only for day camps that don't qualify for the exemption)",
    "agency_url": "https://www.scchildcare.org",
    "summary": "South Carolina has no youth camp license: the former state health regulation for camps (Reg. 61-39) was repealed in 2016. Summer resident (overnight) camps are exempt from child care licensing, and school vacation day camps are exempt only if they run in sessions under 3 weeks and don't let children enroll in back-to-back sessions totaling more than 3 weeks; other day camps fall under DSS child care licensing (S.C. Code §63-13-20(4)(e)–(f)).",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/south-carolina#camps"
   },
   "background_checks": {
    "summary": "Before working in a licensed, approved or registered facility, caregivers and staff need a SLED state fingerprint check, an FBI fingerprint check, a DSS Central Registry of Child Abuse and Neglect check, and national (NCIC) and state sex offender registry searches, plus criminal, sex offender and child abuse registry checks in every state lived in during the past 5 years (S.C. Code §63-13-40(D)). Fingerprint checks are repeated every 5 years, or sooner if the person leaves child care for 6 months or more. Provisional hiring is allowed under strict supervision once the first checks clear.",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/south-carolina#background-checks"
   },
   "medication": {
    "summary": "Staff may give medication only with a signed, dated parent consent form good for no more than one year (an electronic authorization, or phone authorization for a single dose, is allowed), following the label or the health care provider's written changes, and never expired (S.C. Code §63-13-185). Medicines stay in the original labeled container with the child's first and last name and child-protective caps, are kept locked, and each dose is logged right away with a copy to the parent; medication errors must be recorded and parents told immediately (Regs. 114-505(D)).",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/south-carolina#medication"
   },
   "mandated_reporting": {
    "everyone_must_report": false,
    "summary": "Listed professionals must report, including childcare workers in a childcare center, teachers, school counselors and principals, health and mental health professionals, clergy and law enforcement; anyone else may report and is encouraged to (S.C. Code §63-7-310). Reports go to the county DSS office or law enforcement; the statute does not set a specific deadline.",
    "hotline": null,
    "hotline_url": null,
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/south-carolina#reporting"
   },
   "unverified": [
    "The SC DSS websites (dss.sc.gov and scchildcare.org) refused connections from our checker, so the agency URL and the statewide abuse hotline could not be confirmed. DSS is believed to use 1-888-227-3487 (1-888-CARE4US); verify on dss.sc.gov before publishing.",
    "Whether school-age (before/after-school) programs operating 4 hours a day or less need a DSS license is not confirmed; it is inferred from the statutory definition of 'childcare'.",
    "The reporting statute (S.C. Code §63-7-310) sets no time limit; whether DSS policy sets one was not confirmed. Coaches and camp staff are not named in the statute's list.",
    "Regulations were read from the S.C. Code of Regulations on scstatehouse.gov; any DSS rule changes not yet codified there were not checked."
   ],
   "sources": [
    {
     "label": "S.C. Code Regs. Chapter 114 (Regs. 114-500 to 114-509, licensed centers)",
     "url": "https://www.scstatehouse.gov/coderegs/Chapter%20114.pdf",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "S.C. Code Title 63, Chapter 13 (Childcare Facilities)",
     "url": "https://www.scstatehouse.gov/code/t63c013.php",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "S.C. Code Regs. 61-39 Camps (repealed 2016), in Chapter 61-18 to 61-58.17",
     "url": "https://www.scstatehouse.gov/coderegs/Chapter%2061-18%20through%2061-58.17.pdf",
     "topic": "camps"
    },
    {
     "label": "S.C. Code Title 63, Chapter 7 (§63-7-310)",
     "url": "https://www.scstatehouse.gov/code/t63c007.php",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    },
    {
     "label": "Child Welfare Information Gateway: Mandatory Reporting of Child Abuse and Neglect",
     "url": "https://www.childwelfare.gov/resources/mandatory-reporting-child-abuse-and-neglect/",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    }
   ]
  },
  {
   "state_code": "SD",
   "state": "South Dakota",
   "checked": "October 2026",
   "page_url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/south-dakota",
   "child_care": {
    "agency": "South Dakota Department of Social Services (DSS), Office of Licensing and Accreditation – Child Care Licensing",
    "agency_url": "https://dss.sd.gov/childcare/licensing/",
    "licensing": "DSS must license day care centers (21 or more children), group family day care homes (13 to 20 children) and before-and-after-school programs, regardless of funding source (SDCL 26-6-14). Family day care homes (12 or fewer children) register with DSS only if they are paid with public funds; others may register voluntarily (SDCL 26-6-14.1, 26-6-14.2).",
    "school_age_exemption": "Day care run by a school board for children of its enrolled students is exempt (SDCL 26-6-1.1). DSS says other before-and-after-school programs, including full-day care during school breaks, must be licensed whatever their location; the only exemption is a program offering educational or recreational activities where children come and go on their own.",
    "ratio_rule": "ARSD 67:42:17:21",
    "ratios": [
     {
      "ages": "3 years",
      "children_per_adult": 10,
      "max_group": null
     },
     {
      "ages": "4 years",
      "children_per_adult": 10,
      "max_group": null
     },
     {
      "ages": "5 years",
      "children_per_adult": 15,
      "max_group": null
     },
     {
      "ages": "School-age",
      "children_per_adult": 15,
      "max_group": null
     }
    ],
    "ratio_3_year_olds": 10,
    "ratio_4_year_olds": 10,
    "ratio_school_age": 15,
    "max_group_school_age": null,
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/south-dakota#licensing",
    "ratios_url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/south-dakota#ratios"
   },
   "camps": {
    "camp_license": "no",
    "agency": null,
    "agency_url": null,
    "summary": "No South Dakota youth camp licensing law was found. The Department of Health licenses campgrounds for the traveling public (ARSD 44:02:14), which is not a camp program license. A summer program that regularly cares for and supervises children may need a DSS child care license; DSS says school-age programs need a license even when they run full days during school breaks.",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/south-dakota#camps"
   },
   "background_checks": {
    "summary": "All child care providers and program employees 14 and older must meet federal background check requirements, repeated at least every 5 years (ARSD 67:42:17:13). In-state checks: South Dakota criminal records (fingerprints), state sex offender registry, the DSS child abuse and neglect central registry, NCIC, and an FBI fingerprint check; out-of-state criminal, sex offender and child abuse registry checks are required for each state lived in during the past 5 years. DSS pays the fees. No camp-specific requirement was found.",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/south-dakota#background-checks"
   },
   "medication": {
    "summary": "Before any medication is given, the parent's permission must be documented with the child's name, medication, dates, times and dosage. The parent supplies it in the original labeled container (prescription labels must show the child's name, dose and frequency, expiration date, prescriber and storage instructions); each dose is recorded with dose, time, date and who gave it, records are kept 6 months, medicines are stored out of children's reach, and unused or expired medicine goes back to the parent (ARSD 67:42:17:27–28).",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/south-dakota#medication"
   },
   "mandated_reporting": {
    "everyone_must_report": false,
    "summary": "Listed professionals must report, including teachers, school counselors and officials, coaches of school activities, licensed or registered child welfare providers, employees and volunteers of child advocacy organizations or child welfare service providers, health professionals and law enforcement (SDCL 26-8A-3); the child care rules also require child care providers to report immediately (ARSD 67:42:17:47). Reports must be made orally and immediately to DSS, law enforcement or the county state's attorney (SDCL 26-8A-8); intentionally failing to report is a Class 1 misdemeanor.",
    "hotline": "1-877-244-0864 (DSS Child Protection Services intake, 8 a.m.–5 p.m. weekdays; after hours, call local law enforcement)",
    "hotline_url": "https://dss.sd.gov/childcare/",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/south-dakota#reporting"
   },
   "unverified": [
    "Whether a summer day camp that isn't a before-and-after-school program needs a DSS license (as a day care center or school-age program) is not confirmed; the statute defines before-and-after-school care as up to 4 hours a day per child, while DSS guidance says school-age programs need a license for full-day care during school breaks too.",
    "No South Dakota youth camp licensing law or camp background-check requirement was found; not confirmed with the Department of Health."
   ],
   "sources": [
    {
     "label": "ARSD 67:42:17 Child Care Licensing",
     "url": "https://sdlegislature.gov/Rules/Administrative/67:42:17",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "SDCL 26-6-14 (license categories)",
     "url": "https://sdlegislature.gov/Statutes/26-6-14",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "SDCL 26-6-1.1 (school board exemption)",
     "url": "https://sdlegislature.gov/Statutes/26-6-1.1",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "DSS: Before & After School Programs fact sheet",
     "url": "https://dss.sd.gov/docs/childcare/licensing/Before_and_After_School_Programs/before_and_after.pdf",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "DSS: Licensed Child Care Program fact sheet",
     "url": "https://dss.sd.gov/docs/childcare/licensing/Licensed_Day_Care_Center/Licensed_Child_Care_Programs.pdf",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "ARSD 44:02:14 Campground regulation",
     "url": "https://sdlegislature.gov/Rules/Administrative/44:02:14",
     "topic": "camps"
    },
    {
     "label": "DSS: Child Care Provider Background Screening",
     "url": "https://dss.sd.gov/childcare/background_screening.aspx",
     "topic": "backgroundChecks"
    },
    {
     "label": "SDCL 26-8A-3 (who must report)",
     "url": "https://sdlegislature.gov/Statutes/26-8A-3",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    },
    {
     "label": "SDCL 26-8A-8 (how to report)",
     "url": "https://sdlegislature.gov/Statutes/26-8A-8",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    },
    {
     "label": "DSS Child Care Services (reporting number)",
     "url": "https://dss.sd.gov/childcare/",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    }
   ]
  },
  {
   "state_code": "TN",
   "state": "Tennessee",
   "checked": "October 2026",
   "page_url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/tennessee",
   "child_care": {
    "agency": "Tennessee Department of Human Services (TDHS), Child Care Services",
    "agency_url": "https://www.tn.gov/humanservices/for-families/child-care-services.html",
    "licensing": "A program needs a TDHS license if it provides care for 3 or more hours a day to 5 or more children who are not related to the caregiver. Family child care homes care for 5-7 children, group child care homes for 8-12, and child care centers for 13 or more (Rule 1240-04-01-.02; T.C.A. §71-3-501 et seq.).",
    "school_age_exemption": "Programs, such as after-school programs, that do not care for 5 or more unrelated children for 3 or more hours a day do not need a license. School-administered preschool and school-age programs are regulated by the Department of Education instead of TDHS. Other exemptions include recreational programs, camps that run only in summer (under 90 days a year) or only during school breaks, Boys & Girls Clubs, and YMCA school-age programs. Most exempt programs must register with TDHS, get written approval before operating, post a sign saying they are not licensed, and keep attendance records (T.C.A. §71-3-503, as amended July 1, 2025).",
    "ratio_rule": "Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 1240-04-01-.22(1)(c), Chart 1 (rules revised February 2026)",
    "ratios": [
     {
      "ages": "3 years",
      "children_per_adult": 9,
      "max_group": 18
     },
     {
      "ages": "4 years",
      "children_per_adult": 13,
      "max_group": 24
     },
     {
      "ages": "5 years",
      "children_per_adult": 16,
      "max_group": 24
     },
     {
      "ages": "School-age (enrolled in and attending school)",
      "children_per_adult": 20,
      "max_group": null
     }
    ],
    "ratio_3_year_olds": 9,
    "ratio_4_year_olds": 13,
    "ratio_school_age": 20,
    "max_group_school_age": null,
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/tennessee#licensing",
    "ratios_url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/tennessee#ratios"
   },
   "camps": {
    "camp_license": "yes",
    "agency": "Tennessee Department of Health, Environmental Health Program (inspections by local health departments)",
    "agency_url": "https://www.tn.gov/health/eh.html",
    "summary": "An organized camp needs a Department of Health permit before it opens (T.C.A. §68-110-103; Rule 1200-01-05). The permit covers health and sanitation, such as facilities, water, and sewage, rather than program staffing. The rules cover camps with outdoor group living or sleeping quarters and define a day camp as an organized camp program. Separately, a camp that meets the legal definition of child care is exempt from a TDHS license only if it runs in summer (under 90 days a year) or during school breaks, serves school-age children, registers with TDHS, and has written approval to operate (T.C.A. §71-3-503(b)(9)).",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/tennessee#camps"
   },
   "background_checks": {
    "summary": "Owners, operators, directors, employees, substitutes counted in ratio who work more than 36 hours a year, and household members 15 or older need a fingerprint-based criminal background check and a registry review no more than 90 days before they have access to the agency. The registry review covers the Vulnerable Persons Registry, the sex offender registry, and Department of Children's Services abuse/neglect records. Checks must be repeated at least every 5 years and after a break in child care employment of more than 180 days. No one may have unsupervised contact with children until cleared (Rule 1240-04-01-.07; T.C.A. §71-3-507). We did not find a separate state background check requirement for youth camps.",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/tennessee#background-checks"
   },
   "medication": {
    "summary": "A designated staff member must accept medication from the parent, get written parent authorization for each medication, and confirm that it is in its original container, not expired, and labeled with the child's name. Only staff trained in medication administration may give it, and each dose is documented (time, amount, side effects, staff name) with a copy to the parent. Medication is stored in a child-proof container, though emergency medications such as an EpiPen or inhaler may be kept unlocked out of children's reach (Rule 1240-04-01-.12(12)).",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/tennessee#medication"
   },
   "mandated_reporting": {
    "everyone_must_report": true,
    "summary": "Everyone in Tennessee is a mandated reporter and must report suspected child abuse or neglect immediately (T.C.A. §§37-1-403 and 37-1-605). Child care rules make each owner, director, staff member, substitute, and volunteer personally responsible for reporting. Staff may not wait to investigate first, and a program may not have policies that get in the way of reporting (Rule 1240-04-01-.10).",
    "hotline": "1-877-237-0004",
    "hotline_url": "https://www.tn.gov/dcs/program-areas/child-safety/report-child-abuse.html",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/tennessee#reporting"
   },
   "unverified": [
    "Center ratios changed in the February 2026 revision of Rule 1240-04-01. The maximum group size for 4- and 5-year-olds is now 24 (it was 20 in the 2022 version), and many online summaries still show the old numbers.",
    "School-administered child care programs follow Department of Education rules (Chapter 0520-12-01), not TDHS. The State Board of Education was revising those rules, including ratios and group sizes, in 2026. Those ratios are not included here.",
    "We found no state background check requirement specific to youth camps. Whether the organized-camp health permit applies to a day camp with no overnight or group-living facilities is not confirmed. Ask the local health department.",
    "The Department of Health's Organized Campgrounds subpage (tn.gov/health/health-program-areas/eh-program/eh-camps.html) did not load during our check, so the main Environmental Health page is linked instead."
   ],
   "sources": [
    {
     "label": "Rule 1240-04-01, Licensure Rules for Child Care Agencies (TN Secretary of State, Feb 2026)",
     "url": "https://publications.tnsosfiles.com/rules/1240/1240-04/1240-04-01.20260208.pdf",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "T.C.A. §71-3-503, exemptions as amended July 1, 2025 (TDHS)",
     "url": "https://www.tn.gov/content/dam/tn/human-services/documents/71-3-503.%20Programs%20and%20facilities%20exempt%20from%20licensing%20amended%20effective%20July%201,%202025.pdf",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "TDHS: Procedures for Requesting an Exemption from Licensure",
     "url": "https://www.tn.gov/humanservices/for-families/child-care-services/how-to-become-a-licensed-child-care-provider/procedures-for-requesting-an-exemption-from-licensure.html",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "TN Department of Health, Environmental Health (Organized Campgrounds)",
     "url": "https://www.tn.gov/health/eh.html",
     "topic": "camps"
    },
    {
     "label": "Rule 1200-01-05, Organized Camps (TN Secretary of State)",
     "url": "https://publications.tnsosfiles.com/rules/1200/1200-01/1200-01-05.pdf",
     "topic": "camps"
    },
    {
     "label": "TN Department of Children's Services: Report Child Abuse",
     "url": "https://www.tn.gov/dcs/program-areas/child-safety/report-child-abuse.html",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    },
    {
     "label": "Child Welfare Information Gateway: Mandatory Reporting of Child Abuse and Neglect",
     "url": "https://www.childwelfare.gov/resources/mandatory-reporting-child-abuse-and-neglect/",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    }
   ]
  },
  {
   "state_code": "TX",
   "state": "Texas",
   "checked": "October 2026",
   "page_url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/texas",
   "child_care": {
    "agency": "Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC), Child Care Regulation",
    "agency_url": "https://www.hhs.texas.gov/providers/child-care-regulation",
    "licensing": "Child-care centers, licensed and registered child-care homes, and listed family homes are regulated by HHSC under Human Resources Code Chapter 42. Programs that offer before- or after-school care or school-age program services are licensed under their own standards (26 TAC Chapter 744), which use the center ratios and group sizes.",
    "school_age_exemption": "Exempt programs include before/after-school programs run by (or under contract with) a school accredited by TEA or another recognized body, municipal recreation programs for ages 5-13 that meet city standards of care, neighborhood recreation programs, single-skill programs (such as sports or dance), short-term programs running less than 3 consecutive weeks and fewer than 40 days a year, programs where parents stay on the premises, and youth camps licensed by DSHS (26 TAC §§745.115-745.129; HRC §42.041(b)). Most of these exemptions come with conditions, such as telling parents the program is not licensed and running background checks.",
    "ratio_rule": "26 TAC §746.1601 (ratios) and §746.1609 (maximum group size); 26 TAC §744.1601 and §744.1607 apply the same numbers to licensed school-age and before/after-school programs",
    "ratios": [
     {
      "ages": "3 years",
      "children_per_adult": 15,
      "max_group": 30
     },
     {
      "ages": "4 years",
      "children_per_adult": 18,
      "max_group": 35
     },
     {
      "ages": "5 years",
      "children_per_adult": 22,
      "max_group": 35
     },
     {
      "ages": "School-age (6-13 years)",
      "children_per_adult": 26,
      "max_group": 35
     }
    ],
    "ratio_3_year_olds": 15,
    "ratio_4_year_olds": 18,
    "ratio_school_age": 26,
    "max_group_school_age": 35,
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/texas#licensing",
    "ratios_url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/texas#ratios"
   },
   "camps": {
    "camp_license": "yes",
    "agency": "Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS), Youth Camp Program",
    "agency_url": "https://www.dshs.texas.gov/youth-camp-program",
    "summary": "Day camps, resident camps, and travel camps that meet the state's youth camp definition need a DSHS youth camp license before operating (Health and Safety Code Chapter 141; 25 TAC Chapter 265, Subchapter B). A program counts as a youth camp only if it serves at least 5 minors away from their parents for 4 or more consecutive days, 4 or more hours a day, only during school vacations, for no more than 120 days a year, and offers at least two outdoor specialized activities such as swimming, archery, or horseback riding (25 TAC §265.11). A program that misses any of these criteria is not a youth camp but may need a child care license from HHSC. The Legislature rewrote the camp safety law in 2025 (HB 1 and SB 1), and DSHS adopted new rules in early 2026.",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/texas#camps"
   },
   "background_checks": {
    "summary": "In licensed child care, staff and others who need a check must have a criminal history check (fingerprint-based for most staff), a check of the DFPS central registry of child abuse and neglect, a SEMARC check (misconduct findings held by HHSC's Employee Misconduct Registry, TEA, and the Texas Juvenile Justice Department), and, for child day-care operations, a National Sex Offender Registry check. People who lived outside Texas in the past 5 years also need out-of-state criminal, abuse/neglect registry, and sex offender registry checks. Fingerprint-based checks must be renewed at least every 5 years (26 TAC §§745.609-745.621). Licensed youth camps must run a criminal background check and a sex offender registry check on every adult staff member and adult volunteer before they have unsupervised contact with campers, and repeat both checks every year (25 TAC §265.12(f)).",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/texas#background-checks"
   },
   "medication": {
    "summary": "Centers need the parent's authorization before giving any medication: in writing (signed and dated), electronically, or by phone for a single dose. An authorization expires after one year. Medication must be in its original container labeled with the child's full name, given as the label or the child's health-care professional directs, and logged with the child's name, medication, date, time, amount, and the staff member's name. Records must be kept 3 months (26 TAC §§746.3803-746.3809). A center that will not give medication must tell parents in writing before enrollment (§746.3811).",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/texas#medication"
   },
   "mandated_reporting": {
    "everyone_must_report": true,
    "summary": "Anyone who has reasonable cause to believe a child has been abused or neglected must report immediately. Professionals, including teachers, day-care employees, and anyone licensed by the state or working for a state-licensed facility who has direct contact with children, must report within 24 hours and cannot hand the duty to someone else (Texas Family Code §261.101).",
    "hotline": "1-800-252-5400",
    "hotline_url": "https://www.txabusehotline.org",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/texas#reporting"
   },
   "unverified": [
    "The official text of Family Code §261.101(b) gives professionals 24 hours to report. The section was last amended in 2025 (SB 571), but we did not confirm which amendment changed it from 48 hours. Many older guides and training materials still say 48 hours.",
    "The youth camp law (HSC Ch. 141) was substantially amended in 2025 (HB 1 and SB 1 after the July 2025 floods), and DSHS rules were updated in 2026. The fiber-internet requirement is in litigation. For the 2026 season, DSHS agreed not to deny or revoke licenses of camps that have redundant internet service, and the lawsuit is on hold until March 1, 2027. Check DSHS for current camp requirements before each season.",
    "The HRC §42.041(b) subsection numbers for exemptions come from the HHSC handbook (effective July 1, 2025). A March 2025 rule adoption cited different subsection numbers, so the statute may have been renumbered."
   ],
   "sources": [
    {
     "label": "HHSC Minimum Standards for Child-Care Centers (26 TAC Ch. 746), revised December 2025",
     "url": "https://www.hhs.texas.gov/sites/default/files/documents/doing-business-with-hhs/provider-portal/protective-services/ccl/min-standards/chapter-746-centers.pdf",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "HHSC Minimum Standards for School-Age and Before or After-School Programs (26 TAC Ch. 744)",
     "url": "https://www.hhs.texas.gov/sites/default/files/documents/chapter-744-school-age.pdf",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "HHSC Child Care Regulation Handbook, 2300 Exemption Categories and Types",
     "url": "https://fhb.hhs.texas.gov/node/310056",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "HHSC Minimum Standards page",
     "url": "https://www.hhs.texas.gov/providers/child-care-regulation/minimum-standards",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "DSHS Youth Camp Program",
     "url": "https://www.dshs.texas.gov/youth-camp-program",
     "topic": "camps"
    },
    {
     "label": "DSHS License Qualification Package (youth camp definition)",
     "url": "https://www.dshs.texas.gov/youth-camp-program/license-qualification-package-youth-camp-program",
     "topic": "camps"
    },
    {
     "label": "25 TAC Ch. 265 Subch. B, rules as in effect 02/02/2026 (DSHS PDF)",
     "url": "https://www.dshs.texas.gov/sites/default/files/youthcamp/pdf/25-tac-p1-ch-265-subch-b-master-rules-as-of-02.02.2026.pdf",
     "topic": "camps"
    },
    {
     "label": "DSHS Youth Camp Laws and Rules",
     "url": "https://www.dshs.texas.gov/youth-camp-program/laws-rules-youth-camp-program",
     "topic": "camps"
    },
    {
     "label": "HHSC Background Check Rules, 26 TAC Ch. 745 Subch. F (revised 8/2026)",
     "url": "https://www.hhs.texas.gov/sites/default/files/documents/doing-business-with-hhs/provider-portal/protective-services/ccl/min-standards/745-sub-f-background-checks.pdf",
     "topic": "backgroundChecks"
    },
    {
     "label": "Texas Family Code §261.101 (official statutes)",
     "url": "https://statutes.capitol.texas.gov/Docs/FA/htm/FA.261.htm",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    },
    {
     "label": "DFPS: Report Abuse",
     "url": "https://www.dfps.texas.gov/Contact_Us/report_abuse.asp",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    },
    {
     "label": "Child Welfare Information Gateway: Mandatory Reporting of Child Abuse and Neglect",
     "url": "https://www.childwelfare.gov/resources/mandatory-reporting-child-abuse-and-neglect/",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    }
   ]
  },
  {
   "state_code": "UT",
   "state": "Utah",
   "checked": "October 2026",
   "page_url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/utah",
   "child_care": {
    "agency": "Utah Department of Health and Human Services, Division of Licensing and Background Checks (DLBC), Office of Licensing - Child Care",
    "agency_url": "https://dlbc.utah.gov/home/office-of-licensing/child-care/rules/",
    "licensing": "A child care center license is required to care for 5 or more unrelated children, for pay, away from the provider's or child's home, without the parent present, on an ongoing basis for 4 or more weeks a year (R381-100-3). An out-of-school-time license is required for programs that serve 5 or more children age 5 and older, for pay, 3 or more days a week and 30 or more days a year (R381-70-3). Home-based providers are licensed or certified separately.",
    "school_age_exemption": "No license is needed for care that is part of a program run by a school regulated by the state or local boards of education, or for care at a public school by an outside organization under contract with the school or with the school's oversight. Also exempt are nonprofit (501(c)(3)) programs for children over 4 and under 13 run under a written agreement with a city or county that oversees them, summer camps on federal land under a federal permit, and short, sporadic care (under 4 hours) with the parent in the building (Utah Code §26B-2-405; R430-8-4). Exempt programs must apply each year to verify their exempt status, post a notice that they are not licensed, and, except school-run programs, submit fingerprint background checks for staff (R430-8-5).",
    "ratio_rule": "Utah Admin. Code R381-100-10, Table 1 (child care centers); R381-70-10 (out-of-school-time programs: 1 staff per 20 children, maximum group 40)",
    "ratios": [
     {
      "ages": "3 years",
      "children_per_adult": 12,
      "max_group": 24
     },
     {
      "ages": "4 years",
      "children_per_adult": 15,
      "max_group": 30
     },
     {
      "ages": "5 years",
      "children_per_adult": 20,
      "max_group": 40
     },
     {
      "ages": "School-age (5 years and older)",
      "children_per_adult": 20,
      "max_group": 40
     }
    ],
    "ratio_3_year_olds": 12,
    "ratio_4_year_olds": 15,
    "ratio_school_age": 20,
    "max_group_school_age": 40,
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/utah#licensing",
    "ratios_url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/utah#ratios"
   },
   "camps": {
    "camp_license": "partly",
    "agency": "Local health departments, under the DHHS Recreation Camp Sanitation rule (R392-300)",
    "agency_url": null,
    "summary": "We found no state youth camp license in Utah. Camps used for temporary overnight stays must meet the state Recreation Camp Sanitation rule (R392-300), which covers water, sewer, and facilities and is enforced by the local health department. That rule does not set staffing or program standards. A day camp or other summer program that cares for 5 or more children age 5 and up, 3 or more days a week for 30 or more days a year, may need an out-of-school-time child care license unless it qualifies for an exemption, such as a summer camp on federal land under a federal permit or a nonprofit program run under a city or county agreement (R381-70-3; Utah Code §26B-2-405).",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/utah#camps"
   },
   "background_checks": {
    "summary": "Before a new staff member or other covered individual starts, the provider must confirm their eligibility in the licensing provider portal. Anyone not already cleared submits an online application and fingerprints (age 16 and older) for a check by the DHHS Office of Background Processing. The check covers criminal history, the Utah and national sex offender registries, and supported child abuse/neglect findings in the state Licensing Information System (LIS). A new check is required if the person has been away from a licensed program for more than 180 days, has lived outside Utah since the last check, or turns 18. Providers and staff must report any new arrest, charge, or finding within 48 hours (R381-100-8). License-exempt programs, except school-run ones, must also submit these checks (R430-8-5).",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/utah#background-checks"
   },
   "medication": {
    "summary": "Parent-supplied medication must be in its original or pharmacy container, with the original label and the child's full name. A signed, dated parent permission form must list the medication, dose, times, how it is given, and the condition being treated. Medication supplied by the center needs parent consent each time it is given. Staff record the date, time, dose, and any error or reaction, and must tell the parent about errors or reactions right away. Medication must be locked or stored out of reach (48 inches up, or 36 inches if refrigerated), and records are kept for 6 weeks (R381-100-17).",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/utah#medication"
   },
   "mandated_reporting": {
    "everyone_must_report": true,
    "summary": "Any person who has reason to believe a child is being or has been abused or neglected must immediately report it to the Division of Child and Family Services or the nearest law enforcement agency (Utah Code §80-2-602). Narrow exceptions exist for certain clergy confessions and attorney-client information.",
    "hotline": "1-855-323-3237 (1-855-323-DCFS)",
    "hotline_url": "https://dcfs.utah.gov/services/child-protective-services/",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/utah#reporting"
   },
   "unverified": [
    "The rule text comes from the Cornell LII mirror of the Utah Administrative Code, which lists amendments through Bulletin 2025-10 (effective 5/8/2025). We could not load the official Utah Administrative Code site (adminrules.utah.gov) to confirm there were no later changes.",
    "The DLBC website (dlbc.utah.gov), including the agency URL used here, shows a browser security check and could not be loaded by our automated tools. It is the official site but was not load-tested.",
    "We found no specific state rule on how often a background check must be renewed (for example, every 5 years). The rule lists only the events that trigger a new check.",
    "Whether a typical summer day camp needs an out-of-school-time license depends on its schedule and exemptions. The 3-days-a-week and 30-days-a-year thresholds come from R381-70-3. DLBC has not confirmed this for camps specifically.",
    "We found no state-level camp permit program beyond the R392-300 sanitation rule enforced by local health departments, so no state agency URL is given for camps."
   ],
   "sources": [
    {
     "label": "Utah Admin. Code R381-100-10, Ratios and Group Size (LII mirror, amended eff. 5/8/2025)",
     "url": "https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/utah/Utah-Admin-Code-R381-100-10",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "Utah Admin. Code R381-100-3, License Required (LII mirror)",
     "url": "https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/utah/Utah-Admin-Code-R381-100-3",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "Utah Admin. Code R381-70-10, Out-of-School-Time ratios (LII mirror)",
     "url": "https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/utah/Utah-Admin-Code-R381-70-10",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "Utah Code §26B-2-405, Exclusions from child care licensing (Utah Legislature)",
     "url": "https://le.utah.gov/xcode/Title26B/Chapter2/26B-2-S405.html",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "Utah Admin. Code R430-8-4, Exempt care (LII mirror)",
     "url": "https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/utah/Utah-Admin-Code-R430-8-4",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "Utah Admin. Code R392-300, Recreation Camp Sanitation (LII mirror)",
     "url": "https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/utah/health/title-R392/rule-R392-300",
     "topic": "camps"
    },
    {
     "label": "Utah Admin. Code R381-70-3, Out-of-School-Time license required (LII mirror)",
     "url": "https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/utah/Utah-Admin-Code-R381-70-3",
     "topic": "camps"
    },
    {
     "label": "Utah Admin. Code R381-100-8, Background Checks (LII mirror)",
     "url": "https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/utah/Utah-Admin-Code-R381-100-8",
     "topic": "backgroundChecks"
    },
    {
     "label": "Utah Admin. Code R430-8-5, Background checks for exempt programs (LII mirror)",
     "url": "https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/utah/Utah-Admin-Code-R430-8-5",
     "topic": "backgroundChecks"
    },
    {
     "label": "Utah Admin. Code R381-100-17, Medications (LII mirror)",
     "url": "https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/utah/Utah-Admin-Code-R381-100-17",
     "topic": "medication"
    },
    {
     "label": "Utah Code §80-2-602 (Utah Legislature)",
     "url": "https://le.utah.gov/xcode/Title80/Chapter2/80-2-S602.html",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    },
    {
     "label": "Utah DCFS: Child Protective Services / Make a report",
     "url": "https://dcfs.utah.gov/services/child-protective-services/",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    },
    {
     "label": "Child Welfare Information Gateway: Mandatory Reporting of Child Abuse and Neglect",
     "url": "https://www.childwelfare.gov/resources/mandatory-reporting-child-abuse-and-neglect/",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    }
   ]
  },
  {
   "state_code": "VT",
   "state": "Vermont",
   "checked": "October 2026",
   "page_url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/vermont",
   "child_care": {
    "agency": "Vermont Department for Children and Families (DCF), Child Development Division (CDD), Child Care Licensing",
    "agency_url": "https://dcf.vermont.gov/cdd/laws-rules/licensing",
    "licensing": "Any place or program run regularly to care for and supervise children outside their homes for less than 24 hours a day needs a DCF license, or registration for a family child care home, unless it is exempt (33 V.S.A. §§3502, 3511). Vermont has separate license rules for Center Based Child Care and Preschool Programs, Afterschool Child Care Programs, and family child care homes.",
    "school_age_exemption": "Exempt programs include recreation programs that run less than 4 hours a day and no more than 13 weeks a year for children ages 3-5, or no more than 13 consecutive weeks for children who have finished kindergarten. Also exempt are programs that meet only 4 hours one day a week or 2 hours two days a week, single-skill activities, and programs run mainly for recreation where care is only incidental. A school-age program funded by 21st Century Community Learning Centers and overseen by the Agency of Education is exempt unless it takes child care subsidy (33 V.S.A. §3502(b); Afterschool Regulations ASP 1.5).",
    "ratio_rule": "Licensing Regulations for Center Based Child Care and Preschool Programs, CBCCPP 6.2.1.3 (Code Vt. R. 13-171-004); Afterschool Child Care Programs ASP 6.2-6.3 (Code Vt. R. 13-171-003)",
    "ratios": [
     {
      "ages": "3 years",
      "children_per_adult": 10,
      "max_group": 20
     },
     {
      "ages": "4 years",
      "children_per_adult": 10,
      "max_group": 20
     },
     {
      "ages": "5 years (through kindergarten)",
      "children_per_adult": 10,
      "max_group": 20
     },
     {
      "ages": "School-age (1st grade and up)",
      "children_per_adult": 13,
      "max_group": 26
     }
    ],
    "ratio_3_year_olds": 10,
    "ratio_4_year_olds": 10,
    "ratio_school_age": 13,
    "max_group_school_age": 26,
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/vermont#licensing",
    "ratios_url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/vermont#ratios"
   },
   "camps": {
    "camp_license": "partly",
    "agency": "Vermont Department of Health, Food and Lodging Program",
    "agency_url": "https://www.healthvermont.gov/environment/food-lodging-program/lodging-establishments",
    "summary": "Residential (overnight) children's camps that run 5 or more consecutive days and supervise children around the clock need an annual Department of Health license (18 V.S.A. §4351; Licensed Children's Camps Rule, effective 1/1/2018). The license covers sanitation, facilities, and health. We found no state license for day camps. A day camp that provides child care may need a DCF child care license unless it qualifies as an exempt recreation program, for example one that runs no more than 13 consecutive weeks for children who have finished kindergarten.",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/vermont#camps"
   },
   "background_checks": {
    "summary": "Before working with children, new staff, auxiliary staff, and others regularly present must submit a Records Check Authorization form to the Division. Staff and the licensee's representative must also be fingerprinted. No one may be left alone with children until the Division approves them based on a check that includes fingerprints. People on a sex offender registry, people with substantiated child abuse/neglect reports, and people with certain convictions are barred (CBCCPP 7.2). Staff must repeat the records check at least every 5 years (CBCCPP 2.3.9.3). We found no background check requirement in the Health Department's children's camp rule.",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/vermont#background-checks"
   },
   "medication": {
    "summary": "Only staff who have completed a Division-approved medication course may give medication, and only with the parent's written permission for each medication. The permission must list the child, date of birth, allergies, drug, dose, time, route, reason, start and end dates, and any special instructions. Prescription and over-the-counter drugs must be in their original, labeled containers and not expired. Each dose is logged, and records are kept 365 days. Rescue medications such as EpiPens and inhalers must be kept immediately accessible (CBCCPP 5.6).",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/vermont#medication"
   },
   "mandated_reporting": {
    "everyone_must_report": false,
    "summary": "Mandated reporters include child care workers, school employees, camp owners, administrators, and counselors (at both residential and day recreation programs), health care providers, clergy, and other listed professions. They must report suspected abuse or neglect to DCF within 24 hours. Anyone else may report (33 V.S.A. §4913).",
    "hotline": "1-800-649-5285",
    "hotline_url": "https://dcf.vermont.gov/fsd/contact/report",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/vermont#reporting"
   },
   "unverified": [
    "We could not download the official DCF rule PDFs (outside.vermont.gov) or the September 2024 interim rule-change memos. Rule text comes from the LII mirror of the Code of Vermont Rules (center rules amended 4/17/2022). The 2024 memos changed CBCCPP 3.7, 5.1, 7.4, and 8.1 and did not appear to change ratios.",
    "DCF is drafting a full revision of the child care licensing rules (draft revisions presented November 2025), and no final proposed rule had been filed as of this check. Ratios and other numbers may change.",
    "A 2026 bill on children's camps (H.795) stayed in the House Human Services Committee and did not become law.",
    "We could not confirm whether day camps that fall outside the recreation-program exemption must get an afterschool or center license. Check with CDD."
   ],
   "sources": [
    {
     "label": "DCF CDD: Child Care Licensing Regulations (current rules and memos)",
     "url": "https://dcf.vermont.gov/cdd/laws-rules/licensing",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "Licensing Regulations for Center Based Child Care and Preschool Programs, 13-171-004 (LII mirror, amended 4/17/2022)",
     "url": "https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/vermont/13-004-Code-Vt-R-13-171-004-X",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "Licensing Regulations for Afterschool Child Care Programs, 13-171-003 (LII mirror)",
     "url": "https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/vermont/13-003-Code-Vt-R-13-171-003-X",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "33 V.S.A. §3502, license required and exemptions",
     "url": "https://legislature.vermont.gov/statutes/section/33/035/03502",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "33 V.S.A. §3511, definitions",
     "url": "https://legislature.vermont.gov/statutes/section/33/035/03511",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "Vermont Department of Health: Lodging Establishments and Children's Camps",
     "url": "https://www.healthvermont.gov/environment/food-lodging-program/lodging-establishments",
     "topic": "camps"
    },
    {
     "label": "Licensed Children's Camps Rule (Vermont Department of Health PDF)",
     "url": "https://www.healthvermont.gov/sites/default/files/document/reg-childrens-camp.pdf",
     "topic": "camps"
    },
    {
     "label": "33 V.S.A. §4913, mandated reporters",
     "url": "https://legislature.vermont.gov/statutes/section/33/049/04913",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    },
    {
     "label": "DCF Family Services: Report Child Abuse",
     "url": "https://dcf.vermont.gov/fsd/contact/report",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    },
    {
     "label": "Child Welfare Information Gateway: Mandatory Reporting of Child Abuse and Neglect",
     "url": "https://www.childwelfare.gov/resources/mandatory-reporting-child-abuse-and-neglect/",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    }
   ]
  },
  {
   "state_code": "VA",
   "state": "Virginia",
   "checked": "October 2026",
   "page_url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/virginia",
   "child_care": {
    "agency": "Virginia Department of Education (VDOE), child care licensing under State Board of Education regulations",
    "agency_url": "https://www.childcare.virginia.gov/",
    "licensing": "A child day center needs a VDOE license if it cares for 2 or more children under 13 in a building that is not anyone's home, or for 13 or more children at any location. This includes short-term programs such as summer day camps (8VAC20-780-10; Code of Virginia Title 22.1, Chapter 14.1). Home-based child care is licensed separately.",
    "school_age_exemption": "No license is needed for single-focus instruction such as sports clinics or music, as long as no child under 6 attends and no child attends more than 25 days in 3 months. Also exempt are recreation or instruction programs within weekly hour limits (for example, no more than 6 hours a week for school-age children while school is in session), organized competitive sports leagues, programs where school-age children may come and go freely under a signed parent policy, and programs that run no more than 20 days a year. Local-government recreation programs for school-age children staffed by government employees, school-division programs staffed by division employees, and out-of-school-time programs affiliated with a national organization that meet set conditions are exempt too. Most exempt programs must file an annual notice with VDOE, tell parents in writing, post a notice, and report serious injuries (Code of Virginia §22.1-289.030).",
    "ratio_rule": "8VAC20-780-350, Tables 1 and 2",
    "ratios": [
     {
      "ages": "3 years",
      "children_per_adult": 10,
      "max_group": 30
     },
     {
      "ages": "4 years",
      "children_per_adult": 10,
      "max_group": 30
     },
     {
      "ages": "5 years (not yet school-age eligible)",
      "children_per_adult": 10,
      "max_group": 30
     },
     {
      "ages": "School-age eligible up to 9 years",
      "children_per_adult": 18,
      "max_group": null
     }
    ],
    "ratio_3_year_olds": 10,
    "ratio_4_year_olds": 10,
    "ratio_school_age": 18,
    "max_group_school_age": null,
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/virginia#licensing",
    "ratios_url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/virginia#ratios"
   },
   "camps": {
    "camp_license": "partly",
    "agency": "Virginia Department of Health (VDH), Environmental Health (overnight camps); VDOE (day camps licensed as child day centers)",
    "agency_url": "https://www.vdh.virginia.gov/environmental-health/summer-camps/",
    "summary": "Overnight summer camps that host 12 or more unrelated minors overnight for any part of more than 2 consecutive days must have a VDH permit and are inspected each year by the local health department. The permit covers water, sewage, grounds, pools, and food (Code of Virginia §§35.1-1, 35.1-18; 12VAC5-440). Day camps are child day programs and need a VDOE child day center license unless they qualify for an exemption, for example a local-government recreation program or a program that runs no more than 20 days a year (Code of Virginia §22.1-289.030). VDH says its summer camp regulations are being updated.",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/virginia#camps"
   },
   "background_checks": {
    "summary": "All employees and volunteers at licensed child day centers, and at centers exempt under the religious exemption, must have a background check before starting and every 5 years after. The check includes a sworn disclosure, fingerprint-based state and FBI criminal history, a search of Virginia's child abuse and neglect central registry, and criminal, sex offender, and abuse registry checks in any state lived in during the past 5 years. People with a barrier crime or a founded abuse/neglect complaint may not work or volunteer. A new hire may start under supervision once their fingerprint check comes back clear, while other results are pending (Code of Virginia §22.1-289.035). Exempt out-of-school-time programs affiliated with national organizations must also run these checks (§22.1-289.030(B)(11)).",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/virginia#background-checks"
   },
   "medication": {
    "summary": "A center may choose to give prescription medication, over-the-counter medication, or only emergency medication, and it must have a written policy. Every medication needs written parent authorization, which expires or must be renewed after 10 work days unless a physician authorizes long-term use. Medication must be labeled with the child's name, drug, dose, and times. Prescriptions must be in the original pharmacy container, and over-the-counter drugs in the original container with directions. Only staff 18 or older with approved medication administration training (MAT for prescriptions, retrained every 3 years) may give it. Medication is kept locked, and each dose, reaction, and error is logged and reported to parents right away (8VAC20-780-510; 8VAC20-780-245 J).",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/virginia#medication"
   },
   "mandated_reporting": {
    "everyone_must_report": false,
    "summary": "Listed professionals must report suspected abuse or neglect immediately, and never later than 24 hours. The list includes anyone employed in a school or child day program, paid child care providers, coaches and other adults working with sports organizations, administrators and employees (18 and older) of day camps, youth centers, and recreation programs, and any adult employed by or associated with an organization responsible for children (Code of Virginia §63.2-1509). Reports go to the local department of social services or the state hotline. Starting July 1, 2027, reports must go to the state hotline.",
    "hotline": "1-800-552-7096",
    "hotline_url": "https://www.dss.virginia.gov/supporting-families/child-protective-services/report-abuse/",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/virginia#reporting"
   },
   "unverified": [
    "The VDOE websites (doe.virginia.gov and childcare.virginia.gov) blocked our automated checks (HTTP 403 Access Denied), so the agency URL and the exact name of the VDOE licensing office were not verified. All rule text was confirmed on the official Virginia Law site (law.lis.virginia.gov).",
    "VDSS publishes the hotline inconsistently. The Report Abuse page lists the toll-free CPS Hotline as (800) 552-7096, but the VDSS homepage shows (804) 786-8536 for 'In Virginia' and (800) 552-7096 for 'Out-of-state'. We used the number on the Report Abuse page.",
    "Code of Virginia §63.2-1509 has a new version taking effect July 1, 2027, which sends all mandated reports to the state hotline instead of local departments.",
    "VDH says the summer camp regulations (12VAC5-440) are being updated, with proposed amendments posted on Virginia Town Hall.",
    "We found no state background check requirement specific to VDH-permitted overnight camps. Camps licensed by VDOE as child day centers must meet §22.1-289.035."
   ],
   "sources": [
    {
     "label": "8VAC20-780-350, Staff-to-children ratio and group size (Virginia Administrative Code)",
     "url": "https://law.lis.virginia.gov/admincode/title8/agency20/chapter780/section350/",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "8VAC20-780-10, Definitions",
     "url": "https://law.lis.virginia.gov/admincode/title8/agency20/chapter780/section10/",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "Code of Virginia §22.1-289.030, Exemptions from licensure",
     "url": "https://law.lis.virginia.gov/vacode/title22.1/chapter14.1/section22.1-289.030/",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "VDH: Summer Camps",
     "url": "https://www.vdh.virginia.gov/environmental-health/summer-camps/",
     "topic": "camps"
    },
    {
     "label": "Code of Virginia §35.1-1, definition of summer camp",
     "url": "https://law.lis.virginia.gov/vacode/title35.1/chapter1/section35.1-1/",
     "topic": "camps"
    },
    {
     "label": "Code of Virginia §35.1-18, license required",
     "url": "https://law.lis.virginia.gov/vacode/title35.1/chapter3/section35.1-18/",
     "topic": "camps"
    },
    {
     "label": "12VAC5-440, Regulations for Summer Camps",
     "url": "https://law.lis.virginia.gov/admincode/title12/agency5/chapter440/",
     "topic": "camps"
    },
    {
     "label": "Code of Virginia §22.1-289.035, background checks for child day centers",
     "url": "https://law.lis.virginia.gov/vacode/title22.1/chapter14.1/section22.1-289.035/",
     "topic": "backgroundChecks"
    },
    {
     "label": "8VAC20-780-510, Medication",
     "url": "https://law.lis.virginia.gov/admincode/title8/agency20/chapter780/section510/",
     "topic": "medication"
    },
    {
     "label": "8VAC20-780-245, Ongoing training (medication administration)",
     "url": "https://law.lis.virginia.gov/admincode/title8/agency20/chapter780/section245/",
     "topic": "medication"
    },
    {
     "label": "Code of Virginia §63.2-1509, mandated reporters",
     "url": "https://law.lis.virginia.gov/vacode/title63.2/chapter15/section63.2-1509/",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    },
    {
     "label": "VDSS: Report Abuse and Neglect",
     "url": "https://www.dss.virginia.gov/supporting-families/child-protective-services/report-abuse/",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    },
    {
     "label": "Child Welfare Information Gateway: Mandatory Reporting of Child Abuse and Neglect",
     "url": "https://www.childwelfare.gov/resources/mandatory-reporting-child-abuse-and-neglect/",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    }
   ]
  },
  {
   "state_code": "WA",
   "state": "Washington",
   "checked": "October 2026",
   "page_url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/washington",
   "child_care": {
    "agency": "Washington State Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF)",
    "agency_url": "https://www.dcyf.wa.gov/services/early-learning-providers/licensed-provider",
    "licensing": "DCYF licenses child care centers and family homes (up to 12 children) under Chapter 110-300 WAC, and school-age programs under Chapter 110-301 WAC. An agency that regularly provides early learning or child care for less than 24 hours needs a license unless the law excludes it (RCW 43.216.010).",
    "school_age_exemption": "Excluded from licensing are seasonal camps, meaning programs that run 3 months or less in any 12-month period and focus mainly on closely supervised recreation or education. Also excluded are programs run by any unit of local, state, or federal government (such as a school district or parks department), schools that accept only school-age children, and drop-in recreation or education programs for school-age children run by a local affiliate of a national nonprofit that follows the national group's safety standards. Programs where parents stay on site are also excluded (RCW 43.216.010(2)). Exempt school-age programs must report their exempt status on a DCYF form (WAC 110-301-0025).",
    "ratio_rule": "WAC 110-300-0356(5) (centers); WAC 110-301-0356(5) (licensed school-age programs: 1:15, group of 30)",
    "ratios": [
     {
      "ages": "3 years",
      "children_per_adult": 10,
      "max_group": 20
     },
     {
      "ages": "4 years",
      "children_per_adult": 10,
      "max_group": 20
     },
     {
      "ages": "5 years (not in kindergarten)",
      "children_per_adult": 10,
      "max_group": 20
     },
     {
      "ages": "School-age (5-12, in kindergarten or elementary school)",
      "children_per_adult": 15,
      "max_group": 30
     }
    ],
    "ratio_3_year_olds": 10,
    "ratio_4_year_olds": 10,
    "ratio_school_age": 15,
    "max_group_school_age": 30,
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/washington#licensing",
    "ratios_url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/washington#ratios"
   },
   "camps": {
    "camp_license": "partly",
    "agency": "Local health jurisdictions, under State Board of Health camp rules (Chapter 246-376 WAC)",
    "agency_url": null,
    "summary": "Washington has no youth camp license. Seasonal camps (3 months or less a year, mainly recreational or educational) are excluded from DCYF child care licensing (RCW 43.216.010(2)(g)). Group camps that provide food and lodging must register each year with the local health officer at least 30 days before opening and meet State Board of Health sanitation and site rules (WAC 246-376-010 and -020). Those rules were last updated in 1997.",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/washington#camps"
   },
   "background_checks": {
    "summary": "Licensed providers, staff, volunteers, and family-home household members must pass a DCYF background check before having unsupervised access to children, and repeat it at least every 3 years (WAC 110-06-0040; WAC 110-300-0105). The check includes fingerprints, an interstate check for every state lived in during the past 5 years, and disclosure of convictions, pending charges, and 'negative actions' such as founded child abuse or neglect findings. Fingerprints must be redone at renewal only if the person has lived outside Washington since the last check. We found no state background check requirement for seasonal camps, which are excluded from licensing.",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/washington#background-checks"
   },
   "medication": {
    "summary": "Staff may give medication only after completing the program's medication orientation and DCYF's standardized medication administration training. They also need written, signed parent consent and must follow the label. Prescriptions must be for that child and labeled with the child's name, prescriber, dose, and duration. Over-the-counter medication must be in its original packaging, labeled with the child's name, and come with an authorization form. Every dose goes in a medication log (name, drug, dose, date and time, side effects, and the signature of the person giving it), and medication must be stored out of children's reach (WAC 110-300-0215).",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/washington#medication"
   },
   "mandated_reporting": {
    "everyone_must_report": false,
    "summary": "Mandated reporters include licensed or certified child care providers and their employees, school personnel, DCYF employees, clergy, nurses, and other listed professions. Supervisors at any nonprofit or for-profit organization must also report abuse by someone they supervise who coaches, trains, teaches, or has unsupervised access to children. Reports go to law enforcement or DCYF at the first opportunity, and no later than 48 hours (RCW 26.44.030).",
    "hotline": "1-866-363-4276 (statewide; DCYF also lists regional intake lines)",
    "hotline_url": "https://www.dcyf.wa.gov/safety/report-abuse",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/washington#reporting"
   },
   "unverified": [
    "The DCYF reporting page now lists six regional intake numbers and says to call 866-363-4276 on holidays, evenings, and weekends. We could not confirm that 866-363-4276 still answers around the clock for all reports.",
    "The camp registration rule (Chapter 246-376 WAC) dates from 1960-1997, and we could not find a current Department of Health web page for it. How local health jurisdictions enforce it varies and is not confirmed.",
    "Whether a summer day camp longer than 3 months, or one that does not focus mainly on recreation or education, needs a school-age license has not been confirmed by DCYF."
   ],
   "sources": [
    {
     "label": "WAC 110-300-0356, Center capacity, ratio, and group size",
     "url": "https://app.leg.wa.gov/wac/default.aspx?cite=110-300-0356",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "WAC 110-301-0356, School-age capacity, ratio, and group size",
     "url": "https://app.leg.wa.gov/wac/default.aspx?cite=110-301-0356",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "RCW 43.216.010, definitions and exclusions from licensing",
     "url": "https://app.leg.wa.gov/RCW/default.aspx?cite=43.216.010",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "WAC 110-301-0025, Certified and exempt school-age programs",
     "url": "https://app.leg.wa.gov/wac/default.aspx?cite=110-301-0025",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "Chapter 246-376 WAC, Camps",
     "url": "https://app.leg.wa.gov/wac/default.aspx?cite=246-376",
     "topic": "camps"
    },
    {
     "label": "WAC 246-376-020, Registration",
     "url": "https://app.leg.wa.gov/wac/default.aspx?cite=246-376-020",
     "topic": "camps"
    },
    {
     "label": "WAC 110-06-0040, Background clearance requirements",
     "url": "https://app.leg.wa.gov/wac/default.aspx?cite=110-06-0040",
     "topic": "backgroundChecks"
    },
    {
     "label": "WAC 110-300-0105, Preservice requirements",
     "url": "https://app.leg.wa.gov/wac/default.aspx?cite=110-300-0105",
     "topic": "backgroundChecks"
    },
    {
     "label": "WAC 110-300-0215, Medication",
     "url": "https://app.leg.wa.gov/wac/default.aspx?cite=110-300-0215",
     "topic": "medication"
    },
    {
     "label": "RCW 26.44.030, mandated reporters",
     "url": "https://app.leg.wa.gov/RCW/default.aspx?cite=26.44.030",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    },
    {
     "label": "DCYF: How to Report Child Abuse or Neglect",
     "url": "https://www.dcyf.wa.gov/safety/report-abuse",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    },
    {
     "label": "Child Welfare Information Gateway: Mandatory Reporting of Child Abuse and Neglect",
     "url": "https://www.childwelfare.gov/resources/mandatory-reporting-child-abuse-and-neglect/",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    }
   ]
  },
  {
   "state_code": "WV",
   "state": "West Virginia",
   "checked": "October 2026",
   "page_url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/west-virginia",
   "child_care": {
    "agency": "West Virginia Department of Human Services (DoHS), Bureau for Family Assistance, Early Care and Education (child care licensing)",
    "agency_url": "https://bfa.wv.gov/child-care-centers",
    "licensing": "A child care center license is required for care of 13 or more children in any setting when the facility is open more than 30 days a year per child (78 CSR 1 §2.1; W. Va. Code §49-1-206). Family child care facilities (7 to 12 children) need a certificate and family child care homes (4 to 6 children) need a registration, and centers running out-of-school-time (before/after school, school holiday) programs are licensed under a separate rule, 78 CSR 21.",
    "school_age_exemption": "W. Va. Code §49-2-113(e) exempts public-school or WVDE-accredited school programs, school programs with sessions of 4 hours a day or less, summer recreation camps with sessions of 30 days or less, out-of-school-time programs funded and monitored by the WV Department of Education, and out-of-school-time programs for children 6 and older (including programs of national congressionally chartered groups and county parks and recreation or municipal camps) that meet fire and health codes, run state and federal background checks on all staff and volunteers, are not mainly fee-funded (parks and rec and municipal programs excepted) and have a formal monitoring system. Every out-of-school-time program, exempt or not, must register with DoHS when it opens and every year after (§49-2-113(h)).",
    "ratio_rule": "78 CSR 1 §10.5 and Appendix 78-1-E, Table A (child care centers); 78 CSR 21 §9.2 (out-of-school-time centers)",
    "ratios": [
     {
      "ages": "3 years",
      "children_per_adult": 10,
      "max_group": 20
     },
     {
      "ages": "4 years",
      "children_per_adult": 12,
      "max_group": 24
     },
     {
      "ages": "5 years",
      "children_per_adult": 12,
      "max_group": 24
     },
     {
      "ages": "School-age (6 and up)",
      "children_per_adult": 16,
      "max_group": 32
     }
    ],
    "ratio_3_year_olds": 10,
    "ratio_4_year_olds": 12,
    "ratio_school_age": 16,
    "max_group_school_age": 32,
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/west-virginia#licensing",
    "ratios_url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/west-virginia#ratios"
   },
   "camps": {
    "camp_license": "partly",
    "agency": "Local health departments, under the WV Bureau for Public Health, Office of Environmental Health Services (sanitation permit for organized camps)",
    "agency_url": "https://bph.wv.gov/oehs",
    "summary": "West Virginia has no youth camp license. Organized camps (places that give children or adults an outdoor group-living experience or have sleeping quarters) need an operating permit from the local health officer under the General Sanitation rule, with plan review for new or remodeled facilities and an inspection before the permit is issued (64 CSR 18 §§64-18-2, 64-18-3). Summer recreation camps with sessions of 30 days or less are exempt from child care licensing (W. Va. Code §49-2-113(e)(3)), and day camps run by county parks and recreation commissions or municipalities can be exempt if they meet the §49-2-113(e)(8) conditions.",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/west-virginia#camps"
   },
   "background_checks": {
    "summary": "Licensed centers must have a state and FBI fingerprint-based check run through WV CARES on every staff member and volunteer, and no one may work with children until WV CARES issues a fitness determination; staff stay enrolled in Rap Back for ongoing alerts. Centers must also check sex offender registries and child abuse and neglect registries in West Virginia and in every state lived in during the past 5 years, repeating the abuse registry search every 5 years (78 CSR 1 §8.4). There is no separate camp rule, but out-of-school-time and county parks and recreation or municipal camp programs claiming the §49-2-113(e)(8) exemption must run state and federal checks on all staff and volunteers.",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/west-virginia#background-checks"
   },
   "medication": {
    "summary": "Centers may give medicine only with the parent's written, signed instructions (child's name, medicine, reason, dose, time and route) and, except for limited over-the-counter use, a prescription or written order from a licensed health care provider; prescription medicine must be in its original pharmacy-labeled package, and medicine is kept in a locked container out of children's reach (sunscreen, diaper ointment and emergency medicine need not be locked but must be out of reach). Only staff who have passed approved medication administration training may give it, each dose is recorded in ink in a cumulative medication log, and medication errors must be reported to the director and parent (78 CSR 1 §§8.6.g, 15.4.h).",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/west-virginia#medication"
   },
   "mandated_reporting": {
    "everyone_must_report": false,
    "summary": "Listed professionals must report, including child care workers, teachers and other school staff, youth camp administrators and counselors, and employees, coaches and volunteers of groups that run organized activities for children. They must report to DoHS immediately and within 24 hours at most, also report to the State Police and local law enforcement when serious physical abuse or sexual abuse is suspected, and tell the person in charge of their program; anyone else may report (W. Va. Code §49-2-803).",
    "hotline": "1-800-352-6513",
    "hotline_url": "https://bss.wv.gov/centralized-intake-abuse-and-neglect",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/west-virginia#reporting"
   },
   "unverified": [
    "Mandated reporting conflict: the DoHS Centralized Intake page says any person over 18 who witnesses, or hears from a credible witness about, sexual abuse of a child must report within 24 hours, but the current W. Va. Code §49-2-803 text (last amended 2024, HB 4274) contains no such universal duty. The JSON follows the code; confirm with DoHS.",
    "Whether day camps (no overnight stay) count as 'organized camps' that need a local health department permit under 64 CSR 18: the definition centers on group living or sleeping quarters. Not confirmed.",
    "64 CSR 18 (General Sanitation) shows an amendment 'In Progress' on the Secretary of State site, so camp permit rules may change.",
    "The Office of Environmental Health Services page that lists organized camps (oehs.wvdhhr.org) did not load during checking; the camp agency link points to the Bureau for Public Health's OEHS landing page instead.",
    "No state background-check requirement was found for summer recreation camps that are exempt under §49-2-113(e)(3) (sessions of 30 days or less). Not confirmed.",
    "78 CSR 1 and 78 CSR 21 sunset on August 1, 2028, so expect replacement rules before then."
   ],
   "sources": [
    {
     "label": "78 CSR 1, Child Care Centers Licensing (DoHS, effective April 1, 2023)",
     "url": "https://bfa.wv.gov/media/6931/download?inline",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "78 CSR 21, Out-of-School-Time Child Care Center Licensing (DoHS)",
     "url": "https://bfa.wv.gov/media/33236/download?inline",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "DoHS Out of School Time Centers page",
     "url": "https://bfa.wv.gov/page/out-school-time-centers",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "W. Va. Code §49-2-113 (licensing exemptions, OST registration)",
     "url": "https://code.wvlegislature.gov/49-2-113/",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "W. Va. Code §49-1-206 (definitions)",
     "url": "https://code.wvlegislature.gov/49-1-206/",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "WV Secretary of State: 78-01 rule versions (4/1/2023 version active)",
     "url": "https://apps.sos.wv.gov/adlaw/csr/rule.aspx?rule=78-01",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "64 CSR 18 §64-18-2, General Sanitation definitions (organized camp)",
     "url": "https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/west-virginia/W-Va-C-S-R-SS-64-18-2",
     "topic": "camps"
    },
    {
     "label": "64 CSR 18 §64-18-3, plan review and permit to operate",
     "url": "https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/west-virginia/W-Va-C-S-R-SS-64-18-3",
     "topic": "camps"
    },
    {
     "label": "WV Secretary of State: 64-18 rule versions (8/12/2013 version active)",
     "url": "https://apps.sos.wv.gov/adlaw/csr/rule.aspx?rule=64-18",
     "topic": "camps"
    },
    {
     "label": "W. Va. Code §49-2-803",
     "url": "https://code.wvlegislature.gov/49-2-803/",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    },
    {
     "label": "DoHS Centralized Intake for Abuse and Neglect",
     "url": "https://bss.wv.gov/centralized-intake-abuse-and-neglect",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    }
   ]
  },
  {
   "state_code": "WI",
   "state": "Wisconsin",
   "checked": "October 2026",
   "page_url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/wisconsin",
   "child_care": {
    "agency": "Wisconsin Department of Children and Families (DCF), Division of Early Care and Education, Bureau of Early Care Regulation",
    "agency_url": "https://dcf.wisconsin.gov/cclicensing",
    "licensing": "Anyone who cares for 4 or more children under age 7 for pay, for less than 24 hours a day, needs a DCF child care license (Wis. Stat. 48.65(1)). DCF licenses family child care centers (up to 12 children from August 1, 2026), group child care centers (13 or more from August 1, 2026) and day camps, and school-age programs in a licensed center follow the group center rules in DCF 251.",
    "school_age_exemption": "The license requirement only covers care of children under 7, so a program serving only children 7 and older does not need a license (Wis. Stat. 48.65(1)). Also exempt: public, parochial and tribal schools, and counties, cities, villages, towns, school districts and libraries running programs mainly for recreation or social purposes (48.65(2)); DCF 251.02 also excludes programs of 4 hours a week or less, group lessons and athletic activities, and seasonal programs of 10 days or less in any 3-month period. School-run programs that want Wisconsin Shares subsidy or YoungStar must be monitored by DCF against part of DCF 251.",
    "ratio_rule": "Wis. Admin. Code DCF 251.055(2) and Table DCF 251.055 (group child care centers)",
    "ratios": [
     {
      "ages": "3 years",
      "children_per_adult": 10,
      "max_group": 20
     },
     {
      "ages": "4 years",
      "children_per_adult": 13,
      "max_group": 26
     },
     {
      "ages": "5 years",
      "children_per_adult": 18,
      "max_group": 36
     },
     {
      "ages": "School-age (6 and up)",
      "children_per_adult": 18,
      "max_group": 36
     }
    ],
    "ratio_3_year_olds": 10,
    "ratio_4_year_olds": 13,
    "ratio_school_age": 18,
    "max_group_school_age": 36,
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/wisconsin#licensing",
    "ratios_url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/wisconsin#ratios"
   },
   "camps": {
    "camp_license": "partly",
    "agency": "Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) and its agent local health departments for overnight recreational and educational camps; DCF for licensed day camps",
    "agency_url": "https://datcp.wi.gov/Pages/Programs_Services/RecEdCamp.aspx",
    "summary": "Overnight camps (recreational and educational camps with overnight living quarters and planned group programs) need an annual license from DATCP or its agent local health department, whether free or fee-based (Wis. Stat. 97.67; ATCP 78.03, 78.07). Day camps caring for 4 or more children under 7 need a DCF day camp license under DCF 252, which covers seasonal, outdoor-oriented programs for children 3 and older. Day camps run by a county, city, village, town, school district or library mainly for recreation are exempt by statute, as are seasonal programs of 10 days or less in any 3-month period (DCF 252.03).",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/wisconsin#camps"
   },
   "background_checks": {
    "summary": "Every caregiver, non-caregiver employee and household member (age 10 and up) at a licensed center or DCF-licensed day camp needs a DCF child care background check before starting: Wisconsin criminal history, an FBI fingerprint check, national and Wisconsin sex offender registries, Wisconsin abuse and neglect findings and caregiver misconduct registry, and criminal, sex offender and child abuse registries in any state lived in during the past 5 years. Fingerprints must be redone every 5 years (Wis. Stat. 48.686; DCF 13). DATCP-licensed overnight camps must have applicants disclose sexual criminal history and consent to a check, review the national sex offender public registry before hiring, and adopt a policy barring people with listed offenses (ATCP 78.26(1)).",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/wisconsin#background-checks"
   },
   "medication": {
    "summary": "Staff may give prescription or over-the-counter medicine only with a dated, parent-signed authorization on file listing the child's name and birth date, the medicine, instructions, dosing interval and how long it lasts; blanket authorizations longer than the label allows are not permitted. Medicine must be in its original container labeled with the child's name, dose and directions, stored out of children's reach (refrigerated medicine in a separate labeled container), and given as labeled; new staff orientation must cover medication administration (DCF 251.07(6)(f); DCF 251.05(4)(a)6.).",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/wisconsin#medication"
   },
   "mandated_reporting": {
    "everyone_must_report": false,
    "summary": "Listed professionals must report, including child care workers in child care centers, child care providers, teachers, school administrators, school counselors and other school employees, social workers, nurses and police (Wis. Stat. 48.981(2)(a)); coaches and recreation staff are not named unless they fit a listed role, though anyone may report. Reporters must tell the county child protective services agency (DCF in Milwaukee County) or the sheriff or local police immediately, by phone or in person (48.981(3)(a)1.); licensed day camp staff and volunteers must also report immediately and get yearly abuse-reporting training (DCF 252.07(3)).",
    "hotline": "No single statewide number: call the county or tribal child protective services agency where the child lives (numbers listed by DCF) or local law enforcement; 911 in an emergency",
    "hotline_url": "https://dcf.wisconsin.gov/reportabuse",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/wisconsin#reporting"
   },
   "unverified": [
    "Wisconsin state websites (dcf.wisconsin.gov, docs.legis.wisconsin.gov, datcp.wi.gov) did not load from the research network (DNS and connection timeouts). Their content was checked through archived copies captured May to October 2026 and Cornell LII mirrors of the Administrative Code, but those official URLs could not be load-tested directly.",
    "DCF's rule package CR 26-010 (family child care up to 12 children, group centers 13 or more, school-age group leader minimum age 16, day camp assistant counselors) was described by DCF as effective August 1, 2026; final publication of the rule was not directly confirmed.",
    "Table DCF 251.055 group sizes for ages 3 and up were taken from the LII copy and from 2025 Wis. Act 15, which shows those rows unchanged; the Legislature's live code page could not be opened to confirm.",
    "Current DCF 251.07(6)(f) text on LII skips item 2 and shows no medication log requirement for group centers. Whether a written administration record is still required was not confirmed.",
    "Day camps serving only children 7 and older appear to fall outside the license requirement in s. 48.65(1); DCF guidance saying so directly was not found."
   ],
   "sources": [
    {
     "label": "DCF 251.055, supervision and grouping (Table DCF 251.055)",
     "url": "https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/wisconsin/Wis-Admin-Code-SS-DCF-251-055",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "DCF 251.02, applicability and excluded care",
     "url": "https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/wisconsin/Wis-Admin-Code-SS-DCF-251-02",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "Wis. Stat. ch. 48 (s. 48.65 license requirement and exemptions)",
     "url": "https://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/statutes/statutes/48.pdf",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "DCF Child Care Licensing home page",
     "url": "https://dcf.wisconsin.gov/cclicensing",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "DCF summary of 2025-27 budget child care changes (ratio pilot)",
     "url": "https://dcf.wisconsin.gov/files/tribal/pdf/2026%20Consultation/ece-biennial-budget-items.pdf",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "DATCP Recreational and Educational Camps",
     "url": "https://datcp.wi.gov/Pages/Programs_Services/RecEdCamp.aspx",
     "topic": "camps"
    },
    {
     "label": "ATCP 78.03, definitions (recreational and educational camp)",
     "url": "https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/wisconsin/Wis-Admin-Code-SS-ATCP-78-03",
     "topic": "camps"
    },
    {
     "label": "ATCP 78.07, license required",
     "url": "https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/wisconsin/Wis-Admin-Code-SS-ATCP-78-07",
     "topic": "camps"
    },
    {
     "label": "DCF 252.04, day camp definition",
     "url": "https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/wisconsin/Wis-Admin-Code-SS-DCF-252-04",
     "topic": "camps"
    },
    {
     "label": "DCF 252.03, day camp exclusions",
     "url": "https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/wisconsin/Wis-Admin-Code-SS-DCF-252-03",
     "topic": "camps"
    },
    {
     "label": "DCF Child Care Background Check page",
     "url": "https://dcf.wisconsin.gov/ccbgcheck",
     "topic": "backgroundChecks"
    },
    {
     "label": "ATCP 78.26, camp staff screening",
     "url": "https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/wisconsin/Wis-Admin-Code-SS-ATCP-78-26",
     "topic": "backgroundChecks"
    },
    {
     "label": "DCF 251.07(6)(f), medications",
     "url": "https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/wisconsin/Wis-Admin-Code-SS-DCF-251-07",
     "topic": "medication"
    },
    {
     "label": "DCF 251.05(4)(a), staff orientation",
     "url": "https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/wisconsin/Wis-Admin-Code-SS-DCF-251-05",
     "topic": "medication"
    },
    {
     "label": "DCF 252.07(3), day camp abuse reporting",
     "url": "https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/wisconsin/Wis-Admin-Code-SS-DCF-252-07",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    },
    {
     "label": "DCF Report Child Abuse and Neglect (county contacts)",
     "url": "https://dcf.wisconsin.gov/reportabuse",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    }
   ]
  },
  {
   "state_code": "WY",
   "state": "Wyoming",
   "checked": "October 2026",
   "page_url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/wyoming",
   "child_care": {
    "agency": "Wyoming Department of Family Services (DFS), Child Care Licensing",
    "agency_url": "https://dfs.wyo.gov/providers/child-care-2/",
    "licensing": "Anyone caring for more than two unrelated children must be licensed by DFS unless an exemption applies (W.S. 14-4-102; Ch. 2 §1). License types are family child care homes (up to 10 children in the owner's home), family child care centers (up to 15) and child care centers (16 or more, in a non-residential building) (Ch. 11 §2(a)).",
    "school_age_exemption": "Exempt are after-school programs that operate mainly when school is out (before and after school and in summer), serve only children of compulsory school age, are organized for learning, youth development, enrichment, recreation or character-building, and follow local health, safety and fire codes (W.S. 14-4-102(b)(x)). Programs run or supervised by the state, a local government or a school district fall outside the definition of a child caring facility (W.S. 14-4-101(a)(vi)), and summer camps run by nonprofits are exempt (14-4-102(b)(viii)).",
    "ratio_rule": "Wyoming DFS Child Care Licensing Rules, Ch. 11 §2(b) (rules updated April 2026)",
    "ratios": [
     {
      "ages": "3 years",
      "children_per_adult": 12,
      "max_group": 30
     },
     {
      "ages": "4 years",
      "children_per_adult": 12,
      "max_group": 30
     },
     {
      "ages": "5 years",
      "children_per_adult": 18,
      "max_group": 40
     },
     {
      "ages": "School-age (6 and up)",
      "children_per_adult": 18,
      "max_group": 40
     }
    ],
    "ratio_3_year_olds": 12,
    "ratio_4_year_olds": 12,
    "ratio_school_age": 18,
    "max_group_school_age": 40,
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/wyoming#licensing",
    "ratios_url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/wyoming#ratios"
   },
   "camps": {
    "camp_license": "no",
    "agency": null,
    "agency_url": null,
    "summary": "Wyoming has no youth camp licensing law in its statutes. Summer camps run by nonprofit organizations are exempt from DFS child care licensing (W.S. 14-4-102(b)(viii)), but a for-profit day camp caring for more than two unrelated children may need a DFS child care license unless another exemption applies, such as the after-school and summer program exemption for children of compulsory school age (14-4-102(b)(x)). 'Ranches for children', including summer-only ranches, are listed as child caring facilities that need DFS certification (W.S. 14-4-101(a)(vi)(J)).",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/wyoming#camps"
   },
   "background_checks": {
    "summary": "Before working, owners, directors, staff, substitutes, volunteers present during operating hours, and household members 18 and older need a Central Registry (child abuse and neglect) check in Wyoming and every state lived in for the past 5 years, national and state sex offender registry checks, an FBI fingerprint check, and state criminal history checks (Ch. 11 §3(g)). The Central Registry and Wyoming sex offender checks repeat every year, and the FBI, state criminal and national sex offender checks repeat every 5 years. No state background check requirement for youth camps was found.",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/wyoming#background-checks"
   },
   "medication": {
    "summary": "Staff may give medicine only after DFS-approved preservice training that includes medication administration, renewed every 2 years, and with written parent permission for each prescription or over-the-counter medicine (child, medicine, dose, instructions, date and time; for 'as needed' medicine the parent must be called that day first). Prescription medicine must keep its original label, be stored with child-safety caps out of children's reach, and be logged; parents are told the same day, and errors or reactions must be reported to the parent and Licensing within 24 hours (Ch. 11 §17).",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/wyoming#medication"
   },
   "mandated_reporting": {
    "everyone_must_report": true,
    "summary": "Every person who knows or has reasonable cause to suspect a child is abused or neglected must report immediately to DFS (the local child protective agency) or local law enforcement (W.S. 14-3-205). Staff of a school, facility or agency must also tell the person in charge, who then also has to make sure a report is made.",
    "hotline": "No single statewide number published: call the local DFS field office (listed on the DFS contact page) or local law enforcement; 911 in an emergency",
    "hotline_url": "https://dfs.wyo.gov/i-need-to-report/abuse-neglect-exploitation/",
    "url": "https://backpr.com/resources/states/wyoming#reporting"
   },
   "unverified": [
    "The April 2026 rule chapters were read from the PDFs linked on the DFS Licensing Rules page (Chapters 4-7 now repealed and replaced by Ch. 11). The effective date and Wyoming Administrative Rules filing number could not be confirmed on rules.wyo.gov.",
    "The DFS 'Who Needs to be Licensed?' page describes the government exemption as 'child care facilities supervised by the state, local government, school district', while W.S. 14-4-102(b)(vi) as printed refers to foster homes; the government-run exclusion in this file relies on the 'privately operated' and 'not supervised by the state, any local government, school district' wording of W.S. 14-4-101(a)(vi).",
    "No state youth camp licensing or camp background check law was found in Wyoming Statutes Titles 11, 14 or 35; separate health permits (for example food service or pools) for camps were not checked. Not confirmed.",
    "W.S. 14-3-206 refers to a 'statewide reporting center', but the DFS reporting page lists only local DFS offices and law enforcement, so no statewide hotline number is given.",
    "Research hit the web-search limit while checking Wyoming; findings rely on direct reads of DFS pages, the DFS-linked rule PDFs and the Wyoming Legislature statute PDFs."
   ],
   "sources": [
    {
     "label": "DFS Child Care Licensing Rules page (updated April 2026)",
     "url": "https://dfs.wyo.gov/providers/child-care-2/licensing-rules/",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "Ch. 11, Health and Safety Requirements for All Facility Types",
     "url": "https://drive.google.com/open?id=1bAw-NIsp6WQXL3RAuPqPBiBrPXVTnOPE",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "DFS: Who Needs to be Licensed?",
     "url": "https://dfs.wyo.gov/providers/child-care-2/who-needs-to-be-licensed/",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "Wyoming Statutes Title 14 (W.S. 14-4-101, 14-4-102)",
     "url": "https://wyoleg.gov/statutes/compress/title14.pdf",
     "topic": "childCare"
    },
    {
     "label": "DFS Child Care Background Check Information",
     "url": "https://dfs.wyo.gov/providers/child-care-support/",
     "topic": "backgroundChecks"
    },
    {
     "label": "DFS Reporting Abuse, Neglect, or Exploitation",
     "url": "https://dfs.wyo.gov/i-need-to-report/abuse-neglect-exploitation/",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    },
    {
     "label": "DFS local office contacts",
     "url": "https://dfs.wyo.gov/about/contact-us/",
     "topic": "mandatedReporting"
    }
   ]
  }
 ]
}