Committee hears bill to create licensing for short‑term crisis childcare; providers say new license would reduce barriers

Representative Torkelson told the committee House File 37-50 would create a specific licensing framework for short-term crisis childcare providers — commonly called crisis nurseries — so organizations like Ivy House and the Greater Minneapolis Crisis Nursery are not forced to fit operations into two ill-fitting licenses.

"Our services are voluntary, short-term and prevention focused," said Steve Troubled, a volunteer board member at a crisis nursery, describing nearly 1,000 days of free childcare provided last year and roughly 500 helpline calls as evidence of demand. Amber Collins, founder and interim executive director of Ivy House, said crisis nurseries provide care for children when parents face medical emergencies, mental-health crises, or housing instability and that the current dual-licensing structure creates operational confusion.

Supporters told the committee a new license would not require state funding but would provide a replicable regulatory structure that preserves safety and accountability while removing barriers to opening similar programs in other communities. Committee members asked about target ages and current capacity; witnesses said existing facilities serve children up to age 6 to 10 depending on facility and license type.

The committee laid the bill over to allow the Department of Children, Youth and Families and licensing staff to review regulatory language and return with implementation guidance.

What happens next: Sponsors will work with licensing officials and stakeholders to draft a licensing framework and report back to the committee.