Gov. John Carney issued an executive order Thursday trying to ensure childcare options remain available in the First State during the novel coronavirus pandemic.
Carney’s order gives Secretary of the Department of Services for Children, Youth and their Families the ability to suspend or modify provisions of the state's childcare rules, regulations and statutes - as long as changes do not endanger the safety or welfare of a child.
“This Executive Order will help make sure Delawareans have access to child care over the long run, especially those health care workers who we need on the front lines of our state's response," said Carney in a statement.
The order also allows the Kids Dept. to work with existing providers to designate emergency childcare sites for children of health care workers, emergency medical staff, law enforcement, and other essential personnel.
The state sent providers a letter offering further guidance on questions about Purchase of Care and health best practices.
The Carney administration has faced some criticism for not closing childcare centers along with the state’s public schools.
It defended that decision by saying the centers are more controlled environments and children seem less susceptible to COVID-19.
