SB5310 adjusts child care subsidy rates in Washington to reflect cost of living and ensure providers are compensated for high-quality care.

SB5310 mandates the Washington State Department of Children, Youth, and Families to adjust child care subsidy rates to match the full cost of providing high-quality care. The bill incorporates factors such as median income, cost of living by zip code, and provider categories like rural, suburban, or urban. It also integrates a rate model for nonstandard child care hours. The department must evaluate options to support access to affordable health care insurance for licensed or certified child care providers. The bill takes effect July 1, 2025.

SB5310 adjusts child care subsidy rates in Washington to reflect cost of living and ensure providers are compensated for high-quality care.

SB5310 mandates the Washington State Department of Children, Youth, and Families to adjust child care subsidy rates to match the full cost of providing high-quality care. The bill incorporates factors such as median income, cost of living by zip code, and provider categories like rural, suburban, or urban. It also integrates a rate model for nonstandard child care hours. The department must evaluate options to support access to affordable health care insurance for licensed or certified child care providers. The bill takes effect July 1, 2025.