The bill establishes new requirements for the siting of child care centers in Washington State. It mandates that cities and towns must permit child care centers and the conversion of existing buildings for this purpose in all zones, with the exception of industrial zones, light industrial zones, and open space zones. Cities are allowed to impose reasonable restrictions on permits, such as designating pickup and drop-off areas. Additionally, cities that are required to update their comprehensive plans under the growth management act must incorporate these requirements into their regulations during their next update, while other cities must comply within two years of the bill's effective date. The bill also allows for conditional use approval of child care centers in industrial or light industrial zones, except near high hazard facilities.

Similar provisions are included for code cities, which are also required to allow child care centers in most zones, with the same exceptions and conditions as regular cities. The bill defines "child care centers" in accordance with existing law. Overall, the legislation aims to facilitate the establishment of child care facilities across various zones to support community needs while maintaining certain regulatory controls.