TO AMEND SECTION 63-13-80 OF THE 1976 CODE, RELATING TO INSPECTIONS OF CHILDCARE FACILITIES, TO PROVIDE FOR ANNUAL INSPECTIONS OF CHILDCARE FACILITIES BY THE DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES.
Be it enacted by the General Assembly of the State of South Carolina:
SECTION 1. Section 63-13-80 of the 1976 Code is amended by adding:
"(C) After issuing a license, the department shall conduct annual inspections of childcare centers and group childcare homes. The department may call on political subdivisions and governmental agencies for appropriate assistance within their authorized fields. Inspection reports completed by state agencies and local authorities must be furnished to the department and become a part of its annual report to be posted on the department's website. Annual inspections must include an evaluation of the facility, health and fire safety, and the plan of care for children. The department may interview staff and parents relating to regulatory compliance."
SECTION 2. This act takes effect upon approval by the Governor.