The bill aims to enhance child care services by allowing existing buildings, particularly churches, to be utilized for child care centers. It emphasizes the importance of using available spaces rather than constructing new facilities, thereby benefiting communities. To facilitate this, the bill introduces a new section to chapter 19.27 RCW, which mandates that when a child care center operates in a dedicated space within a multi-use building, the occupancy load must be calculated solely based on the areas designated for child care services. This provision is intended to simplify compliance with building codes and encourage more building owners to offer their spaces for child care.

Additionally, the bill amends RCW 43.216.265 to include a specific requirement for calculating occupancy loads for child care centers in existing buildings. This amendment aligns with the overall goal of promoting the use of existing structures for child care, thereby addressing the growing demand for such services in the community. The changes are designed to streamline the regulatory process and make it easier for child care providers to operate within existing facilities.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 43.216.265
Substitute Bill: 43.216.265
Bill as Passed Legislature: 43.216.265
Session Law: 43.216.265