This bill aims to modify the Working Connections Child Care program in Washington State to enhance access to affordable, high-quality child care for working families. Key changes include amending eligibility criteria for families based on their income, specifically maintaining eligibility for those with annual incomes at or below 60% of the state median income. The bill also introduces new provisions that allow licensed or certified child care centers to claim daily payments for child care services, with specific rules to be adopted by the Department of Children, Youth, and Families by October 1, 2026. Additionally, the bill mandates that child care subsidy base rates be adjusted to reflect the 85th percentile of market rates by July 1, 2026, and the 75th percentile by July 1, 2027.

Furthermore, the bill includes provisions for collective bargaining rights for family child care providers, establishing the governor as their public employer for bargaining purposes. It outlines the scope of collective bargaining, which includes economic compensation and benefits, while explicitly excluding retirement benefits. The bill also repeals existing provisions related to prospective payments and establishes an effective date for certain sections, emphasizing the urgency of these changes for public welfare. Overall, the legislation seeks to improve child care accessibility and support for both families and providers in Washington State.

Statutes affected:
Original bill: 43.216.802, 43.216.828, 41.56.153, 43.216.827