Delay on new day care rules

Gov. Chris Sununu and the Department of Health and Human Services have requested a delay before finalizing new rules for day care in New Hampshire.

New day care regulations in the works

The rules were scheduled for an August 17 vote before the Joint Legislative Committee on Administrative Rules (JLCAR).  That committee can either approve or object to new rules from government agencies.

The new regulations cover everything from professional development time to requiring parental permission for a child under age six to wear a necklace. 

Opposition to new rules

Many day care providers argue the proposed new regulations are too burdensome.  In particular, the rules limiting screen time faced significant opposition. 

“Gov. Sununu has heard from a number of stakeholders who are very concerned about the impact of the proposed regulations on their businesses. We have fully engaged with those stakeholders and the Department of Health and Human Services to get a firm handle on the process and to ensure that all concerns are fully considered.”

- Ben Vihstadt, spokesperson for Gov. Sununu

Is this the right time to object to new rules?

However, there have been multiple opportunities for public comment on the rules.  Some legislators also believe the Governor should not intervene in the rulemaking process.

“We have a process here in New Hampshire that says the Legislature makes the laws, the governor — if he doesn't veto them — the laws are in effect, and then the departments write the rules, and the Legislature oversees the process to make sure they don't exceed the authority of the rule. I've been in this business now for twelve years. I've never seen a governor do this. All of a sudden we have a governor who thinks he's a legislator.”

- Sen. John Reagan 

Do you have an opinion on the rulemaking process for day care in New Hampshire?  Share your thoughts in the comments below.