This bill aims to expand access to the Working Connections Child Care program for employees of small businesses and adjust the implementation dates for eligibility criteria. A new section is added to chapter 43.216 RCW, establishing that applicants or consumers are eligible for benefits if they are employed by a small business, have a household income not exceeding 75% of the state median income at the time of application, or 85% starting July 1, 2031, if funds are available. The bill also defines "small business" as an entity with 50 or fewer employees and mandates the department to adopt a copayment model for benefits that aligns with existing income levels.

Additionally, the bill amends existing laws to modify income eligibility thresholds and implementation dates. Specifically, it changes the eligibility for families with incomes above 60% and up to 75% of the state median income to begin on July 1, 2029, and for those with incomes above 75% and up to 85% to start on July 1, 2031. The bill also clarifies that the income eligibility requirements do not apply to certain households already eligible under other specified RCWs. The act is declared necessary for the immediate preservation of public peace, health, or safety, and is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 43.216.808