30. Partnering State and Local Agencies

Question 1

Other governmental organizations that have an indirect role in the regulation of child care facilities:

Answer 1

• State Fire Marshal - focuses on the protection of life, property, and the environment
• Department of Children and Families Background Screening Clearinghouse
  ~ Provides a point of contact for background screening results
  ~ Facilities are responsible for the screening of their child care personnel
  ~ Information is reviewed during licensing authority inspections
• Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) - process child care personnel criminal history records checks—statewide and national—and juvenile checks
• Florida Office of Early Learning - administers the School Readiness and Voluntary Prekindergarten (VPK) programs
• Florida Department of Health - Epidemiologists and Nurses—health record audits
• Local County Government Agencies
  ~ Zoning and Building Codes ensure program can legally operate in a specific location and that it has sound structure
  ~ Septic System if applicable may affect facility capacity
  ~ Occupational License may be required by some counties, cities, and municipalities; this is in addition to a license to operate issued by DCF or the local licensing agency
  ~ Fire Inspector conducts the annual fire safety inspection required of all facilities
  Some counties require family day care homes to be locally licensed

Question 2

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Answer 2

It is important to understand the requirements of all agencies at both the state and local levels.