CHILD CARE LICENSING – Adds to existing law to provide for department oversight for residential care facilities, licensing requirements, facility documentation requirements, and the youth bill of rights.

This bill (H 723) establishes new standards for Idaho's licensed children's residential care facilities. It requires the Department of Health and Welfare to conduct annual unannounced facility inspections, implement individualized service plans for each child (documenting needs, goals, and progress), and create a "Youth Bill of Rights" ensuring children are treated with dignity and informed of their rights. Facilities must document child assessments, update service plans every 90 days, and report critical incidents. These changes directly affect children in residential care, the facilities providing care, and the state department overseeing compliance.