The bill aims to modernize reimbursement rates for the Working Connections Child Care Program in Washington State to better reflect the 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, such as the Fair Start for Kids Act, and introduces a cost of quality child care rate model, which was developed in consultation with child care providers and approved by federal authorities. This model is intended to ensure that reimbursement rates are based on living wages for providers and the actual costs of delivering quality care.

Key amendments to existing law 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 recent surveys. It also outlines the factors that must be considered in determining these rates, such as staff salaries, benefits, family engagement activities, and professional development. Additionally, the bill mandates a review of rate enhancements for special populations every three years, ensuring that the needs of infants, nonstandard hours, and special needs are addressed.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 43.216.828