Child-care providers to take first-aid course if law passes

NEW CASTLE, Pa. -- An ordinance being considered by Lawrence County Commissioners would require child-care providers in Lawrence County to complete a pediatric first-aid course before providing child care.
Child-care providers would also be required to take a refresher course on first-aid methods every two years. Commissioners discussed the ordinance at a hearing Tuesday and will vote on it later. If passed, it would take effect July 1.
The ordinance states Child Care Information Services of Lawrence County or any other group designated by the commissioners may withhold funding from the child-care providers who care for children whose families are on public assistance if they do not meet the requirements of either the initial certification or any required refresher courses. Agencies such as the American Red Cross offer the courses.
In some cases, private citizens, including relatives, can be paid $17 a day for caring for children on welfare. They'd have to take the first-aid course just as professional day-care providers would.