The bill aims to modernize reimbursement rates for the Working Connections Child Care Program in Washington State to better reflect the actual costs of providing high-quality child care. It emphasizes the importance of child care for working families and the economy, noting that many families struggle to find affordable care while providers earn low wages. The legislation builds on previous efforts, particularly the Fair Start for Kids Act, and introduces a cost of quality child care rate model developed in consultation with child care providers. This model is intended to ensure that reimbursement rates are based on living wages and the true costs of delivering quality care.

Key amendments to RCW 43.216.828 include maintaining the current baseline reimbursement rate while requiring future recommendations for subsidy rates to be based on the new cost of quality model. The bill specifies that child care subsidy base rates must achieve, at a minimum, the 85th percentile of the market based on the latest market rate survey. Additionally, it mandates that the Department of Children, Youth, and Families utilize the cost of quality model to recommend rates that cover essential costs such as staff salaries, benefits, and educational materials. The bill also includes provisions for reviewing rate enhancements for special populations every three years, ensuring that the needs of diverse families are met.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 43.216.828