State Rep. Loranne Ausley is trying to move a bill she said will improve child care around the state, but it's an uphill battle. She's trying to be flexible, even agreeing to take funding out the bill to get it passed.
In a Schools and Learning Council meeting Tuesday, she lobbied for the Florida's Sunshine State Stars Quality Rating system (HB1107), which would create a statewide, voluntary child care rating system.
Last year, the bill didn't get far, and this year's effort won't be easy either.
Health Policy Chair Rep. Joe Pickens, R-Palatka, asked Ausley what would be the utility if they passed the bill without funding it.
"I think it's really important that we put it in the statue, so we have a directive from the state that we want a voluntary statewide, uniform system," Ausley responded. "With or without appropriations."
Janet Mabry, who spoke for the Florida Association For Child Care Management, said the bill replicates a system already in place, referring to the Gold Seal accreditation standards.
"This bill sets up a new system which is repetitive and costly," Mabry said. "If we are going to do this, it needs to be in the Department of Children and Families."
Ausley argued the Gold Seal program doesn't have continuity from county to county, and by adding a child care rating system, "we're trying to move to an apples to apples system. This is, to me, how to make it easier for the consumer."
Once or if funded, Ausley said she's not sure how much the rating system would cost.
The companion Senate bill is SB 2226, by Sen. Nan Rich, D-Sunrise.
The bill was approved in the Schools and Learning Council, and Ausley hopes the bill will make it to the Policy and Budget Council next.