Committee backs bill to ease opening of childcare centers in county

The PHED committee voted 5-0 to move CB35 (draft 2) favorable. Sponsor said the bill is part of a layered approach to expand access to childcare in Prince George's County, complementing newly funded county scholarships and other state-level work. The measure removes a special-exception requirement for childcare centers in certain zones to reduce barriers for providers.

Heather Dolopolsky, an attorney for Kingdom Fellowship AME Church, testified that her client operates Kingdom Care Center and could add a daycare of up to an estimated 120 children at its Beltsville Drive facility pending permit and parking approvals. Sponsor and staff repeatedly emphasized that state childcare licensing and safety standards are unchanged by the zoning change and will continue to govern quality and safety.

Committee members moved the bill favorable with technical amendments incorporated into draft 2 and took the steps to advance it to the full council.