Legislation sponsored by State Senators Janice Marchman and Faith Winter to address the high cost of child care passed the Senate on Thursday.

SB25-004 would require private child care centers to provide a transparent fee schedule upon registration, when joining a waitlist, or at the request of a family. The bill would also require application or waitlist fees to be refundable after six months if a child is not admitted and remains on the waitlist. 

“The rising cost of child care is a significant hurdle for countless families across Colorado,” said Sen. Marchman, D-Loveland, in a joint statement with Sen. Winter, D-Broomfield. “By establishing clear guidelines for application and waitlist fees, as well as deposits, we can provide tangible relief to working families. With application fees often exceeding $175 per child, these costs add up quickly … This bill ensures child care becomes more affordable and accessible.”

These requirements would apply to private child care programs outside the Universal Preschool Program, Colorado Child Care Assistance Program and Head Start. A center may charge a deposit, but if admitted, the deposit must go towards tuition of child care.

“The lack of transparency on child care fees burdens families with unexpected expenses,” added Sen. Winter. “I hear from so many parents in my community that they are struggling to find child care. Limiting waitlist fees and adding transparency to application fees on child care center websites and forms reduces financial uncertainty and helps parents make informed decisions about what’s best for them.”

 SB25-004 now moves to the House for further consideration. To track the bill’s progress, go to LEG.Colorado.gov.