The bill addresses the qualifications for child care providers in Washington State, particularly in light of the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. It recognizes the significant impact the pandemic had on the child care industry, leading to facility closures and a shortage of qualified providers. To support the workforce, the bill extends the timeline for licensed child care providers to demonstrate experience-based competency until at least August 1, 2030. It also mandates the implementation of a noncredit-bearing, community-based training pathway that offers an alternative to existing credit-bearing education requirements, ensuring that training is accessible, culturally relevant, and available in multiple languages.

Additionally, the bill establishes a stakeholder group to identify strategies for improving early learning and school-age staff qualification requirements and verification processes. This group will focus on streamlining administrative rules, recognizing equivalent out-of-state education, and exploring online training options. The department of children, youth, and families is tasked with reporting the findings and plans from this stakeholder group to the legislature by December 1, 2026. The bill aims to enhance the professional development of child care providers while acknowledging their experience and the unique challenges they face.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 43.216.755
Substitute Bill: 43.216.755
Second Substitute: 43.216.755
Engrossed Second Substitute: 43.216.755
Bill as Passed Legislature: 43.216.755
Session Law: 43.216.755