Who Is Checking Connecticut's Child Care Providers? Audit Finds Gaps in Inspections

Connecticut's Office of Early Childhood failed to ensure that licensed child care providers received 1,958 required annual inspections within the applicable fiscal year, according to a state audit released October 20, 2026.

The finding covers fiscal years 2022 through 2025 and represents approximately 14% of the annual inspection obligations reviewed — not necessarily 1,958 different providers. State law requires annual unannounced inspections.

The agency agreed with the finding but offered important context: approximately 81% of the cases involved providers closing near the fiscal year or inspections occurring within 60 days before or after it. OEC said calendar year tracking showed greater compliance and that it was improving its monitoring system.

Auditors also identified inconsistent follow-up for serious violations. Among 24 providers selected because of elevated risk, eight received their first follow-up inspection at least 15 days later, with delays reaching 95 days. OEC had not established defined follow-up deadlines.

The agency acknowledged the need for stronger oversight but said enforcement decisions require flexibility. Auditors responded that professional judgment should be supported by clear policies.

For families, the findings raise a practical question: How reliably does the state verify that problems have been corrected?