In Washington, all child-care centers must be licensed. In Idaho, only those centers with more than 12 children are required by the state to be licensed. Some Idaho cities, such as Coeur d'Alene, have stricter standards. Because the smaller centers don't need to be licensed, they also aren't subject to minimum health and safety inspections. And, alarmingly, their workers are not subject to criminal background checks. Legislation to shore up child-care regulations in Idaho failed last session. This time advocates will come armed with a survey that shows Idaho residents are unhappy with the state's lax standards.

For the rest of the editorial by Gary Crooks/SR, click here.

Question: Are you satisfied with the level of protection by state regulations offered to children in Idaho day cares?

---

---