The bill aims to achieve budget savings by amending existing laws related to early learning and child care assistance programs in Washington State. Key amendments include the removal of phased implementation timelines for the early learning program, which will now allow for immediate funding distribution based on eligible children enrolled. Additionally, the eligibility criteria for the Working Connections Child Care program have been revised, eliminating previous income thresholds that would have allowed families earning up to 75% of the state median income to qualify starting July 1, 2025. Instead, the bill establishes a new eligibility requirement effective November 1, 2024, for families receiving basic food benefits, ensuring they meet income eligibility requirements.

Furthermore, the bill repeals several sections of existing law, including provisions related to child care subsidy rates and income eligibility for child support, streamlining the process for accessing assistance. It also clarifies that the department must adopt rules for implementing the new income phase-out eligibility period and prohibits considering the citizenship status of a child when determining eligibility for benefits. 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: 43.216.556, 43.216.808, 43.185C.230