On September 23, 2026, the Early Learning Council adopted permanent rules to Chapter 414, Division 75, General Rules for All Child Care Facilities, defining the requirements for program inactivity and the conditions and processes for various program closures. The rules took effect on September 24, 2026.
Summary of Rule Changes
- Some definitions have been added, including: “Administrative Closure”, “Paused Status”, and “Voluntary Surrender”
- Licensed programs have the right to voluntarily surrender their licenses
- The rules outline when a program must notify DELC of Paused Status
- The rules outline when DELC may consider closures appropriate either due to long periods of inactivity or in the case of abandoned operations
- An additional rule was passed which defines an inspection exception process, which grants a 60-day inspection waiver in some cases
What does this mean for your program?
If you are a licensed or regulated subsidy provider and you currently have children in care, you do not need to take any action. If you are a licensed or regulated subsidy provider and you have not had any children in care or will not have any children in care, for more than 30 consecutive calendar days, then you need to let us know here at the Department of Early Learning and Care (DELC). DELC will provide technical assistance tools and resources to help programs understand and put into practice the new requirements.
If you have questions about the new rules, please contact your licensing specialist or DELC customer service at ccld.customerservice@delc.oregon.gov
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