The bill introduces new provisions to chapter 43.216 RCW regarding qualifications for child care providers in Washington State. It allows licensed child care providers until at least August 1, 2028, to demonstrate experience-based competency as an alternative to holding specific early childhood education certificates. To qualify, providers must have active employment in a relevant position, continuous employment in a licensed child care setting since August 1, 2021, or a total of seven years in such settings, along with completion of required health and safety training. The Department of Children, Youth, and Families is tasked with establishing a process to recognize providers who meet these criteria without requiring additional applications.

Additionally, the bill mandates the formation of a stakeholder group to identify strategies for improving early learning and school-age staff qualification requirements and verification processes. This group will include diverse representation from child care providers, advocacy organizations, and educational institutions. The department is required to report back to the legislature by December 1, 2026, detailing the strategies identified and plans for implementation. The provisions related to the stakeholder group will expire on July 1, 2028.