"Conrad’s Law": New Missouri Bill Aims to Make Daycares Safer After Park Hills Child’s Death

Park Hills, Mo. (KFMO) - A Missouri lawmaker is taking action to improve daycare safety standards following the heartbreaking death of a three-year-old child in Park Hills.

On May 16, 3-year-old Conrad Ashcraft died while in the care of Poppy’s Playhouse, a licensed daycare facility in Park Hills. The tragedy has sparked concern and prompted a call for legislative change.

State Representative Cecelie Williams, who represents parts of Jefferson County, has announced plans to file a new bill in honor of Conrad. Williams is collaborating with the Uvalde Foundation For Kids, a national nonprofit that began investigating the case shortly after Conrad's death. The group helped shape the core ideas behind the proposed legislation.

The bill, referred to by many as “Conrad’s Law,” is still in its early stages, with a draft expected in October. It would be pre-filed for the 2025 legislative session in Missouri and formally introduced in January.

Key components of the bill include:

• Mandatory audio and video surveillance in all licensed daycare facilities, with footage required to be stored for a minimum of 90 days.
• New restrictions on the use of weighted blankets, a safety concern raised during the investigation.
• Expanded mandatory training requirements for daycare staff, focusing on safety practices and child welfare.
• Stronger enforcement of licensing standards and increased compliance measures.
• Legal protections for whistleblowers who report safety violations or misconduct in daycare settings.

“This legislation is about making sure no other family has to experience the loss the Ashcraft family has,” said Rep. Williams in a statement. “We want to ensure that Missouri’s daycares are held to the highest safety standards.”

The Jefferson County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office has taken over the investigation into Conrad’s death. As of now, no criminal charges have been filed.

The proposed bill is expected to receive attention during the next legislative session as lawmakers and child safety advocates push for stronger protections in childcare environments across the state.