SE Illinois News

Senate Republicans have taken a significant step in addressing the childcare needs of shift workers by advancing legislation that aims to provide more flexible daycare scheduling options. Sponsored by Senator Jil Tracy, Senate Bill 3207 seeks to create a system that allows daycare centers to operate 24 hours a day and offer care for children for up to 12 hours. Senator Tracy emphasized the importance of catering to working parents with regularly scheduled shifts, stating, "Senate Bill 3207, sponsored by Senator Jil Tracy, authorizes daycare centers to operate for 24 hours and provide care for children for up to 12 hours if the parent of the child is employed in a position that requires regularly scheduled shifts."

In addition, the bill mandates the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services to establish the necessary rules for the implementation and administration of this new daycare system. The move has garnered widespread support, with the legislation receiving unanimous approval during its passage through the Senate on April 12. As a result, Senate Bill 3207 now progresses to the House of Representatives for further consideration.

The proposed legislation represents a proactive approach to addressing the challenges faced by working parents, particularly those with non-traditional work hours. By expanding daycare operating hours and offering extended care options, the bill aims to provide much-needed support to families balancing work and childcare responsibilities.