The provincial government is taking steps to reduce red tape for child-care operators.

Legislation introduced this week would change how licences are renewed under the Early Childhood Services Act.

If passed, the amendments would allow licences to last up to three years for centres with a strong compliance history, according to a government release.

It also stated that this would bring New Brunswick in line with other Atlantic provinces.

“When operators spend less time on administrative work, they can focus more time on providing the best care possible for children,” Education and Early Childhood Development Minister Claire Johnson said.

The bill would also give the minister authority to approve pilot projects for services offered by licensed operators.

Licence length would determine how often inspections are required.