A proposed law born from two tragedies could provide greater protection for children in daycare centers. It is nearing state senate passage. .
Nathan’s law comes from the death of Nathan Blecha, who died in an unlicensed home daycare where ten children were being cared for.
Sam Pratt’s Law is named for a little boy who died of suspected child abuse. The woman running his day care center was charged with manslaughter and then allowed to continuing running her business while awaiting trial.
Senator Scott Rupp’s bill increases fines for unlicensed centers from $200 to $200 DAILY for as long as the center is unlicensed. . Rupp’s proposed law also would require operators to tell parents right off what the licensing status is.
Other parts of his bill let judges shut down day care centers when operators are charged with criminal offenses.