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HB 106

Human Services, Dept. of - As enacted, makes various changes to the licensing exemption categories for programs and activities that fall within the definition of a child care agency; makes related changes, such as exempting home schools from licensure. - Amends TCA Title 4 and Title 71, Chapter 3, Part 5.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by William Lamberth

Tennessee expands child care licensing exemptions, including exempting homeschools from state regulation, effective July 1, 2025.

Pub. Ch. 135
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Bill Summary · HB 106

Legislative bill overview

HB 106 modifies Tennessee's child care licensing requirements by expanding exemptions for programs and activities defined as child care agencies. The bill notably exempts homeschools from state licensure requirements and makes related changes to how child care programs are regulated under state law.

Why is this important

Child care licensing exists to establish safety, health, and quality standards for programs serving children. This bill reduces regulatory oversight for certain categories of child care providers, which affects both the families using these services and the regulatory framework designed to protect children in out-of-home care settings.

Potential points of contention

  • Homeschool exemptions: Removing licensing requirements for homeschools eliminates state oversight of educational quality, safety standards, and staff qualifications, raising questions about consumer protection and educational consistency
  • Enforcement gaps: Broader exemptions may create regulatory loopholes where programs operate without meeting state safety or health standards that apply to licensed competitors
  • Definition scope: The bill's expansion of exemption categories could affect which programs must comply with licensing, potentially allowing unlicensed facilities to operate in gray areas of the definition

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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