Introduced

Passed House

Passed Senate

Became law

Adjourned sine die. The bill was pending when the session ended, so it did not pass.

Last action · February 4, 2026

To Families & Children (H)

Introduced January 28, 2026

House

Adjourned Sine Die

2026 Regular Session

HB496

AN ACT relating to outdoor, nature–based early learning and child care programs.

Amend KRS 199.894 to define "outdoor nature-based early learning and child-care program"; create a new section of KRS Chapter 199 to establish the licensure and operations requirements of outdoor nature-based early learning and child-care programs; establish the Outdoor, Nature–Based Early Learning and Child Care Program Advisory Committee; establish the membership and duties of the committee.

Advisory Boards, Commissions, and Committees Administrative Regulations and Proceedings Children and Minors Labor and Industry Licensing Occupations and Professions

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This bill creates a new type of official license in Kentucky for outdoor, nature-based early learning and child care programs, and sets out the rules those programs must follow to operate. It also establishes an advisory committee to help guide the development of these programs. This matters to Kentuckians because it would give outdoor and nature-focused child care providers a formal, legal pathway to operate under state oversight. Who it may affect: child care providers interested in offering outdoor or nature-based programs, and families seeking that type of early learning environment for young children.

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