The bill addresses the qualifications of 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 providers. To support the workforce, the bill extends the timeline for licensed child care providers to meet certification and training requirements until at least August 1, 2030. It introduces a community-based training pathway as an alternative to traditional credit-bearing education, ensuring that training is accessible, culturally relevant, and available in multiple languages.

Additionally, the bill allows providers to demonstrate experience-based competency as an alternative means to comply with licensing rules, provided they meet specific employment and training criteria. It mandates the establishment of a stakeholder group to identify strategies for improving staff qualification requirements and verification processes, with a report due to the legislature by December 1, 2026. The bill emphasizes the importance of supporting child care providers in their professional development while ensuring that the quality of care remains a priority.

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