OLYMPIA — Gov. Bob Ferguson signed new legislation to clear a path for more child care facilities into law Tuesday.
Senate Bill 5655, sponsored by Sen. Deb Krishnadasan (D-Gig Harbor), modifies rules so child care centers only need to operate according to the occupancy guidelines of the portion of the building they occupy.
“This is a small change that will provide real relief for working families in our communities,” Krishnadasan said. “The legislation allows for more child care centers, more spots, and more peace of mind for parents just looking to ensure their children have safe, reliable, and affordable care.”
Under current law, child care centers operating in a portion of a larger building are subject to the occupancy guidelines of the entire structure.
“The existing law creates nearly insurmountable barriers for those looking to open new child care centers, especially in our rural communities,” Krishnadasan said. “There are child care providers in our own community that can’t open because of the current limitations.”
The legislation goes into effect July 27.
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