The proposed legislation establishes a Washington State Child Care Workforce Standards Board to enhance the working conditions and compensation for child care workers. This board will include representatives from child care workers, employers, and relevant state agencies, and will be responsible for setting minimum employment standards, including compensation and working conditions. The bill emphasizes the necessity of a well-compensated workforce for the health of the child care system and the economy, and it mandates that child care workers be informed of their rights and protected from retaliation for participating in the board's processes. The board is required to adopt rules for minimum child care employment standards by August 1, 2026, and to conduct reviews of these standards every four years.

Additionally, the legislation introduces new provisions to enhance the rights and protections of child care workers. It requires employers to inform workers about their rights and obligations under the law, including minimum employment standards, and to provide this information in a language requested by the worker. The bill prohibits retaliation against workers for exercising their rights or participating in training, and it entitles affected workers to back pay and reinstatement if retaliation occurs. It also establishes minimum wages and working conditions that employers cannot violate, allows civil actions for violations, and mandates collaboration among relevant departments for effective implementation. Overall, the bill aims to strengthen the legal framework surrounding child care employment standards and protect the rights of workers in this sector.