The bill modifies licensing requirements for child care and early learning providers in Washington State by amending several sections of the Revised Code of Washington (RCW) and repealing RCW 43.216.755. Key amendments include the secretary's duty to designate categories of child care facilities and develop separate requirements based on various factors, such as the age of children served and the type of services offered. The bill also emphasizes the need for a single set of licensing standards that align with specific group sizes and staff-to-child ratios for different age groups, while ensuring that private schools operating early learning programs adhere to minimum health and safety standards.

Additionally, the bill introduces new professional development supports for eligible providers, which may include required trainings, scholarships, and other activities aimed at enhancing the quality of child care services. Notably, it specifies that providers will not be mandated to earn early childhood education certification as part of staff qualification requirements. The repeal of RCW 43.216.755 indicates a shift away from previous community-based training pathways, streamlining the focus on professional development and support for child care providers.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 43.216.250, 43.216.255, 43.216.600, 43.216.755