Study of Certified & Licensed Childcare Programs

The Commonwealth of Kentucky’s Auditor of Public Accounts (APA) seeks a qualified consultant or consulting firm to conduct a comprehensive, statewide study of the statutes, regulations, policies, and processes that affect the opening and operation of certified and licensed childcare programs. The contractor will analyze existing legal frameworks, compare Kentucky’s system to peer states, assess federal‑state interactions, identify duplicative or obstructive regulations, and develop recommendations—including use of the Regulatory Sandbox and outdoor‑learning provisions. Deliverables include a draft report (Sept 1 2027), a revised draft for the Kentucky Child Care Advisory Council (Nov 1 2027), and a final report to the Legislative Research Commission (Dec 1 2027). The work requires extensive stakeholder surveys, focus groups, interviews, and collaboration with the Advisory Council, with monthly progress reports and strict timelines. • Perform legal and policy analysis of Kentucky statutes, regulations, and CHFS policies governing childcare licensing and certification. • Benchmark Kentucky’s framework against peer states and national early‑care standards. • Conduct statewide surveys, focus groups, and interviews with providers, officials, educators, parents, and related experts. • Identify regulatory barriers, duplicative rules, and opportunities for reform (e.g., Regulatory Sandbox, nature‑based programs). • Produce actionable recommendations and best‑practice guidance for local governments on zoning, permitting, and land‑use. • Deliver three reports (draft, revised draft, final) on the schedule above, with quarterly updates to the APA and the Advisory Council.