House Approves Godshall Bill Requiring Unannounced Inspections of Child Care Centers
HARRISBURG – The House today gave its overwhelming approval to legislation sponsored by Rep. Robert Godshall (R-Montgomery) that would require unannounced inspections of Pennsylvania child care centers.
Godshall said unannounced inspections will keep the operators of child care centers on their toes and children will be safer. He said many businesses licensed and regulated by the state are already subject to unannounced inspections on an annual basis and the same scrutiny should be expected of those entrusted to care for children.
“Most of our child care facilities are first-class operations, but there are those that cut corners, which can be detrimental to the children in their care,” said Godshall. “
House Bill 46 will help to ensure that certain minimum standards are maintained and children are protected.”
The Department of Human Services currently performs one announced inspection annually. Godshall said announced inspections are somewhat pointless in that they give the operators an opportunity to get things in order. He is proposing to replace those inspections with unannounced inspections, which he believes will keep child care centers on guard, knowing they could be inspected at any time. Godshall acknowledged that unannounced inspections may uncover problems that require follow up, but the intent of his legislation is to expose problems and keep children safe.
House Bill 46 now goes to the Senate for consideration.
Representative Bob Godshall
53rd District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
Media Contact: Donna Pinkham
717.260.6452
dpinkham@pahousegop.com
BobGodshall.com