The bill addresses the qualifications for child care providers in Washington State, particularly in light of the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. It recognizes the significant impact the pandemic had on the child care industry, leading to facility closures and a shortage of providers. To alleviate these issues, the bill proposes delaying the certification and training requirements for child care providers and introduces a work equivalency option that acknowledges the experience of current providers. This alternative aims to prevent an education cliff that could discourage professionals from remaining in the field.

Key amendments to existing law include the implementation of a noncredit-bearing, community-based training pathway for licensed child care providers, which must be available in multiple languages and at a low cost not exceeding $250 per person. The bill also extends the compliance deadline for child care licensing rules to August 1, 2032, or five years from the date of hire for new employees. Additionally, it establishes a stakeholder group to explore strategies for improving staff qualification requirements and verification processes, with a report due to the legislature by December 1, 2026. The provisions of this section will expire on July 1, 2028.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 43.216.755
Substitute Bill: 43.216.755
Second Substitute: 43.216.755