VIDEO | Rep. Joshua Penner supports House Bill 2253 | Strengthening DCYF oversight
Rep. Joshua Penner, R-Orting, supports House Bill 2253, which began as a simple licensing update but has become a major push for child safety and financial accountability.
In his speech, Penner explains why he is voting yes: the legislation now includes tough new rules to prevent tragedies and protect taxpayer money.
He breaks down the changes simply. If opioids are found at a childcare facility, they lose their license immediately. The bill also cracks down on “ghost care”—where the state pays for children who aren’t actually attending—addressing a massive $400 million oversight issue found by state auditors.
By adding electronic attendance tracking and stricter fraud penalties, Penner argues this bill will ensure funds actually go to caring for kids, not into the wrong pockets.
