Additional Child Care Assistance Program Site Visits

BCA agents were asked to accompany DCYF staff in January to provide additional support during a period of increased activity. DCYF staff typically conduct compliance visits in groups of at least two, and BCA agents are assisting in a support role. 

Due to the need to complete a higher number of visits in a short period of time, BCA has helped provide additional staffing as well as safety and security for everyone involved. 

Yes. Allowing access to your child care program is a requirement to maintain your license. This applies to both child care centers and family child care providers operating in their homes. 

If you do not allow a DCYF investigator access to your program, it is a violation of Minnesota Statutes, section 142E.52. This may result in administrative action, including disqualification or stop payment. 

If a Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA) agent is accompanying the DCYF investigator, you are required to allow both DCYF and BCA staff into your program. Denying access to either would be a violation. 

ICE agents have not accompanied Office of Inspector General investigators during CCAP compliance or licensing site visits. DCYF’s OIG staff will always identify themselves as state employees and present state-issued identification. If a BCA agent is supporting a DCYF compliance visit, they will always be accompanied by a DCYF Office of Inspector General investigator and will present identification.  

Organizations should consult with their own attorney if they have specific legal questions about their rights and obligations related to federal immigration enforcement. Guidance issued by the Minnesota Attorney General’s Office may be helpful Know Your Rights with ICE.