Intro:  Failure isn't an option for Senate Majority leader Charlie Shields.  After having his bill that put in place a child care rating system was defeated last legislative session, Shields decided to give it another try, with a few changes.

Amy Becker has more from the state capitol.

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Despite reaching support and ultimate passage in the senate, the bill was defeated in the House mainly because of its call for the system to be mandatory.

Shields says the new legislation makes the system voluntary except for state funded facilities who he says will benefit since the state pays more for quality.

The rating system looks at staffing ratios, staff education, quality and content of the facility, and the ability of the center to get parents involved in their children's lives.

Reporting from Jefferson City, I'm Amy Becker