Childcare: facility licensure: teacher requirements.

Assembly Member Garcia's proposal creates a temporary pathway for interim associate teachers to work in California state preschool and childcare programs while pursuing required credentials. Starting July 1, 2026, qualifying teachers would have up to two years from their hire date to obtain a Child Development Associate Teacher Permit while working in the classroom.

The measure establishes specific conditions for this provisional employment arrangement. Programs may employ only one interim associate teacher per classroom, and candidates must possess at least six units in early childhood education, child development, or human development from an accredited institution. Teachers must remain continuously enrolled in coursework toward their credential, with employers documenting their progress and completion deadlines. The bill explicitly protects both teachers and programs from penalties while operating under these provisions.

The authorization expires on July 1, 2029, with full repeal following on January 1, 2030. This temporary framework modifies current law requiring preschool and childcare teachers to obtain credentials before beginning classroom instruction. Interim associate teachers would be authorized to provide program supervision and instruction, including oversight of aides, volunteers, and children, during their credentialing period.