The bill amends several sections of the Revised Code of Washington (RCW) concerning the early learning facilities grant and loan program, specifically targeting RCW 43.31.565, 43.31.569, 43.31.571, 43.31.573, 43.31.575, 43.31.577, 43.31.579, and 43.31.581, while also introducing a new section and repealing RCW 43.31.567. Key provisions include the establishment of the "Ruth LeCocq Kagi early learning facilities revolving account" and the "Ruth LeCocq Kagi early learning facilities development account," which will provide state matching funds and emergency grants for early learning facilities. The definitions of "early learning facility" and "tribal compact school" have been updated, and the bill emphasizes leveraging both private and public match funds, with allowances for exceptions in cases of financial hardship.

Additionally, the bill broadens funding eligibility to include tribal compact schools and specifies various activities that qualify for funding, such as facility predesign, renovations, and emergency project grants. It introduces a prioritization methodology for funding applications, focusing on projects that address the highest unmet needs in early childhood education. The bill also enhances criteria for eligible projects, prioritizing those that benefit low-income children and neighborhoods, and improves access to early childhood education programs. Notably, it removes previous requirements for maximizing state resources alongside other funding sources. Furthermore, the bill addresses liability for committee members involved in these projects and allows the department to purchase liability insurance for them, while empowering the department to adopt rules for implementation.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 43.31.565, 43.31.569, 43.31.571, 43.31.573, 43.31.581, 43.31.577
Bill as Passed Legislature: 43.31.565, 43.31.569, 43.31.571, 43.31.573, 43.31.581, 43.31.577
Session Law: 43.31.565, 43.31.569, 43.31.571, 43.31.573, 43.31.581, 43.31.577