This bill aims to expand access to the Early Childhood Education and Assistance Program (ECEAP) specifically for military families in Washington State. It amends existing laws to allow enrollment of children from military households who have a family income above 36% but at or below 50% of the state median income, provided they meet certain risk factors. Additionally, it introduces a new provision that permits enrollment for children from military families with incomes above 50% of the state median income, as long as they are not eligible under existing criteria. The bill emphasizes prioritizing children based on risk factors affecting kindergarten readiness and school performance, including specific considerations for military families, such as deployment status and single custodial parent situations.

The bill also clarifies that children enrolled under these new provisions will not be considered eligible children as defined in existing law and will not be part of the state-funded entitlement. Furthermore, it defines "military member" to include active members of the armed forces, military reserve components, or the National Guard who are stationed in or residents of Washington State. The new provisions will take effect on August 1, 2030, and the section regarding military family enrollment will expire on the same date.

Statutes affected:
Original bill: 43.216.512, 43.216.514