Mason Introduces Legislation to Build on Childcare Policies

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. — State Rep. Joyce Mason, D-Gurnee, introduced three pieces of legislation focused on developing child care policies in Illinois as a continuation of early childhood initiatives started in 2024, when the new Illinois Department of Early Childhood (IDEC), a cabinet-level agency, was created to unify early childhood services previously spread across three different state agencies. These continued initiatives are especially important as they are being targeted by federal funding cuts and detrimental legislation.

“This year, I’m taking the opportunity to continue the important work of developing our early childhood programs here in Illinois. As a legislator, and as a mom, I am committed to making sure the voices of parents and caretakers are listened to and valued so that we might build a safer, more reliable system.,” said Mason. 

All three bills update policy related to childcare:

• House Bill 5204 establishes that members of the Illinois Early Learning Council appointed by the governor will be parents or caregivers of children who are 5 years of age or younger, ensuring the needs of young families are accurately represented when it comes to improving the lives of Illinois children. 
• House Bill 5373 moves the licensing function to the new Illinois Department of Early Childhood and makes significant updates to create a comprehensive, equitable model for daycare licensing that is safer for families, easier for providers, and anchored in a continuum of quality.
• House Bill 5099 prioritizes the safety of children by updating the Department of Early Childhood Act, requiring all child care providers to be fingerprinted for criminal history by the Department of Early Childhood. Additionally, the bill allows multiple providers access to an individual’s background check, rather than having to complete a new report for each potential employment opportunity.

Mason currently serves as the Chairman for House Child Care Accessibility & Early Childhood Education Committee and remains committed to the children of Illinois. Just this past year, Mason’s House Bill 3439 was signed into law. This law provides that any employee or volunteer of a child care facility must complete a criminal background check every five years of employment. Both this bill and the three new bills Mason is introducing are a part of the ongoing development of the IDEC, which is set to be fully operational on July 1, 2026.

Mason’s actions in child care policy come at a crucial time when social service funding is at risk. The Trump administration announced funding cuts affecting Illinois child care and social service programs in January. Illinois, along with the four other targeted states, secured a temporary restraining order to block the federal administration’s funding freeze.

“Child care policy is something that needs to be updated frequently, and must remain a legislative priority. As lawmakers and parents and educators, we are constantly learning more about early childhood and child development. Our children are not only our most cherished and vulnerable, but they also hold the key to the future of our state and the future of our country. They must be championed, heard, and protected,” said Mason.