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 adjusted, with the previous income thresholds for eligibility being deleted. Instead, the bill establishes that families receiving basic food benefits will automatically meet income eligibility requirements for child care assistance.

Furthermore, the bill repeals several sections of existing law, including provisions related to child care subsidy rates and income eligibility concerning child support. 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