65-528. Child care policy of state; desired outcome. (a) The desired outcome of the child care policy of the state of Kansas is that families be able to fulfill their roles as primary child care givers and educators of young children by having access to high quality, affordable child care. The following principles shall guide development and implementation of state policy to achieve that outcome:

(1) Family self-sufficiency. A stable source of child care is a critical ingredient to economic self-sufficiency. Child care policies and programs must facilitate a smooth transition into the work force for parents and a rich and stable environment for children.

(2) Investment in children. Child care is a critical investment that affects a child's readiness to learn. High quality child care programs recognize and implement good early childhood practices.

(3) Consumer orientation and education. Child care policies and programs must be responsive to the changing needs of families and educate families about available options, identifying quality programs and selecting appropriate care.

(4) Accessibility. High quality child care must be available to any family seeking care regardless of where the family lives or the special needs of the child. A centralized place in local communities must be available to facilitate parents' access to child care.

(5) Affordability. High quality child care must be available on a sliding scale basis, with families contributing based on ability to pay.

(6) Diversity. It is the goal of the state to strive wherever possible to provide child care in an integrated setting where children with various needs and of various income levels and cultures are cared for together.

(7) Efficient, coordinated administration and support for infrastructure. Child care programs must be coordinated to ensure the most effective use of federal, state, local and private funds. State child care agencies and policies must support the orderly development of a high quality child care system working with local and private providers.

(b) Any state agency involved in implementing any part of the state's child care policy shall develop appropriate measures of progress toward achievement of the stated outcome under the oversight of the joint committee on children and families in accordance with K.S.A. 46-2001 et seq. and amendments thereto.

History: L. 1994, ch. 279, § 1; July 1.