This bill requires states that receive federal child care funding to stop prohibiting licensed child care providers from preparing fresh fruits and vegetables in simple ways, such as washing, peeling, and cutting produce. The legislation defines "simple food preparation" as basic handling of minimally processed fruits and vegetables and applies to both licensed facilities and unlicensed exempt providers. Congress found that overly restrictive food regulations discourage child care providers from serving fresh, healthy foods and contribute to the decline of home-based child care options, which disproportionately affects low-income and rural families. By removing these regulatory barriers, the bill aims to make it easier for providers to offer nutritious meals and snacks while reducing bureaucratic obstacles that burden child care operations. The bill does not specify new funding amounts or implementation timelines beyond requiring states receiving Child Care and Development Block Grant funds to comply with the new provision.
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