SB 252 — Child Care Facilities
by Senator Stewart and others
This summary is provided for information only and does not represent the opinion of any Senator, Senate Officer, or Senate Office.
Prepared by: Children, Families, and Elder Affairs Committee (CF)
The bill creates the “Child Safety Alarm Act” and requires that after January 1, 2022, all vehicles used by child care facilities to transport children must be equipped with an approved alarm system that prompts the driver to inspect the vehicle for the presence of children before leaving the area. This change is in response to reported deaths of small children who are left in vehicles during periods of hot weather.
The bill requires the Department of Children and Families (DCF) to adopt minimum safety standards for reliable alarm systems and maintain a list of alarm manufacturers and alarm systems that are approved to be installed in vehicles.
The bill also provides rulemaking authority.
If approved by the Governor, these provisions take effect October 1, 2021.
Vote: Senate 39-1; House 115-1