Governor Signs Law to Streamline Child Care Licensing in Indiana

Written from press release

INDIANAPOLIS — Gov. Braun held a ceremonial signing last week for legislation aimed at expanding access to child care by simplifying licensing requirements across the state.

House Enrolled Act 1253, co-authored by State Rep. Bob Heaton (R-Terre Haute), reduces regulatory hurdles for school-based and multi-site child care providers. Under the law, school-based programs can now serve children from across an entire school corporation, rather than limiting enrollment to the children of students or staff.

The law also extends the eligibility period for state child care vouchers from two years to three years, giving families more time to use their benefits.

“Access to quality child care shouldn’t be out of reach for Hoosier families,” Heaton said in a statement. “By streamlining regulations and giving providers room to grow, we can help provide more options for parents, strengthen our workforce and make child care more affordable across Indiana.”

For multi-site providers, the measure allows them to operate under a single license instead of obtaining separate licenses for each location. Supporters say the change creates a more efficient and transparent process, while each individual facility will still undergo inspections to ensure health and safety compliance.

The ceremonial signing took place Aug. 27 at the Statehouse, with Heaton joining fellow bill authors Rep. Dave Heine (R-Fort Wayne) and Rep. Carey Hamilton (D-Indianapolis).

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