County updates childcare variance policy to reflect DCYF oversight and extend variances to five months

Bethany and county public‑health staff told commissioners the state reorganization moved licensing from DHS to the Department of Children, Youth and Families (DCYF), requiring citation updates in the county variance policy. Staff also recommended extending the allowable length of a variance for home childcare providers from three months to five months to give providers and parents more time while meeting required guidelines.

Bethany said DCYF has approved the five‑month variance approach and that the change will provide continuity for families and providers while they meet licensing requirements. Commissioners asked clarifying questions about the revision date and voted to approve the updated variance policy by voice vote.