Colorado 2024 Regular Session

Colorado Senate Bill SB078

Introduced

1/22/24

Introduced

1/22/24

Report Pass

2/5/24

Refer

1/22/24

Report Pass

2/5/24

Report Pass

4/23/24

Refer

2/5/24

Report Pass

4/23/24

Refer

4/23/24

Engrossed

4/26/24

Engrossed

4/26/24

Report Pass

5/1/24

Refer

4/26/24

Report Pass

5/1/24

Report Pass

5/3/24

Refer

5/1/24

Report Pass

5/3/24

Refer

5/3/24

Engrossed

5/16/24

Engrossed

5/16/24

Engrossed

5/16/24

Passed

6/6/24

Enrolled

5/16/24

Passed

6/6/24

Caption

Outdoor Nature-Based Preschool Programs

Impact

If passed, SB078 would modify existing child care statutes to include specific provisions for outdoor nature-based preschool programs, setting standards for their operation and licensing. This includes mandates for providing training for staff overseeing these outdoor programs and establishing risk mitigation strategies specific to outdoor environments. Through this bill, Colorado anticipates enhancing the quality of child care available by fostering outdoor educational experiences, which align with modern pedagogical approaches that emphasize experiential learning.

Summary

Senate Bill 078 seeks to establish outdoor nature-based preschool programs in Colorado as a recognized type of child care center. This initiative underscores the state's commitment to enhancing access to high-quality early education options that leverage the benefits of outdoor learning environments. The bill proposes that these programs aim to reconnect children with nature while promoting physical, cognitive, and social development through immersive outdoor experiences. By formally integrating such programs into the licensing framework overseen by the Department of Early Childhood, Colorado aims to support early childhood learning within its rich natural landscape.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB078 appears predominantly positive among proponents, including various educators and child care advocates who see the value in expanding access to outdoor learning opportunities. They argue it can lead to healthier childhood development and improved educational outcomes. However, there may be underlying concerns related to safety and regulatory compliance, as outdoor programs introduce unique challenges not faced by traditional indoor facilities.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise regarding the implementation of safety regulations for outdoor settings, including how well these programs can ensure child safety in a less controlled environment. Additionally, the debate may include discussions on funding and resources needed for effective program training and oversight, raising questions about the broader fiscal implications of this legislative change.

Latest CO SB078 Activity

View All Events: CO 2024 Regular Session SB078

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

CO HB496

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

CO AB946

An act to add Section 1004 1006 to the Public Resources Code, relating to natural resources.

CO S07971

Includes outdoor nature-based childcare programs under the regulatory framework for child day care providers.

CO S06550

Directs the department of social services to establish an outdoor, nature-based child care pilot project to explore establishing licensing guidelines for the operation of outdoor, nature-based child care programs in an outdoor space and that employ a nature-based early learning curriculum to teach enrolled children.

CO A05352

CO SB1418

Outdoor-based therapy programs; grants

CO SB1350

outdoor-based therapy programs; grants

CO HB1404

Transfer Tobacco Education Fund to Preschool Program Fund

CO AB2678

Preschool programs: QRIS block grant.

CO SB712

Relating To The Preschool Open Doors Program.

Similar Bills

ME LD2114

An Act Regarding Public Preschool Programs Serving Children Who Are 3 Years of Age

IA HF2450

A bill for an act relating to the statewide preschool program by modifying provisions relating to eligibility, funding, and compulsory attendance and including applicability provisions.

IA HF623

A bill for an act relating to early childhood education and care, including by modifying provisions related to the statewide preschool program, the child development coordinating council, programs for at-risk children, the responsibilities of the department of education, the early childhood Iowa initiative, and the state child care assistance program, and establishing the child care continuum partnership grants pilot program within the department of health and human services.(Formerly HSB 145.)

IA SF445

A bill for an act relating to early childhood education and care, including by modifying provisions related to the statewide preschool program, the child development coordinating council, programs for at-risk children, the responsibilities of the department of education, the early childhood Iowa initiative, and the state child care assistance program, establishing the child care continuum partnership grants pilot program within the department of health and human services, making appropriations and reducing appropriations, and including effective date provisions. (Formerly SSB 1135.)

IA SSB1135

IA HSB145

IA HF2092

A bill for an act relating to the statewide preschool program by modifying provisions relating to eligibility, funding, and compulsory attendance and including applicability provisions.(See HF 2493.)

IA HF2493

A bill for an act relating to the statewide preschool program by modifying provisions relating to eligibility, funding, and compulsory attendance and including applicability provisions. (Formerly HF 2092.) Effective date: 07/01/2026. Applicability date: 07/01/2027.