The bill amends the Revised Code of Washington (RCW) to make participation in the Early Achievers quality rating and improvement system voluntary for various child care providers, including licensed and certified child care centers and family home child care. Key changes include the removal of mandatory participation requirements for providers receiving state subsidies and the introduction of provisions for referrals to certified programs. The bill emphasizes child safety and well-being while allowing families to choose their level of participation in the Early Achievers program. It also outlines the program's objectives, such as improving educational outcomes and providing accessible information about child care quality, while establishing a framework for a centralized information source for parents.

Additionally, the bill modifies existing laws regarding the early achievers program, focusing on reporting and evaluation of child care providers' progress, and it removes the requirement for a final report to the governor and legislature. Instead, it introduces new reporting requirements that analyze diversity among providers and participants. The bill mandates mental health consultation services for all certified and licensed child care providers and establishes core competencies for early care professionals. It also introduces tiered reimbursement for early achievers participants and outlines a new outdoor nature-based child care program, allowing for flexibility in licensing requirements. Furthermore, it modifies eligibility criteria for funding from the early learning facilities grant and loan program, removing the requirement for active participation in the Early Achievers program while ensuring long-term commitment to early learning services.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 26.44.272, 43.216.085, 43.216.087, 43.216.089, 43.216.090, 43.216.110, 43.216.255, 43.216.515, 43.216.555, 43.216.578, 43.216.742, 43.31.575