FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – May 1, 2023
OLYMPIA – Legislation to make affordable childcare more accessible, while also strengthening Washington’s childcare workforce, was signed into law by Gov. Jay Inslee on Monday.
Sen. Claire Wilson’s (D-Auburn) Senate Bill 5225 allows more families and childcare workers to qualify for state-subsidized childcare through the Working Connections Child Care program.
This legislation will help build up the childcare workforce by connecting childcare workers to their own childcare so they can return to work.
“I have heard so many stories of childcare workers who have had to forego returning to work because they need their own childcare. This legislation ensures they have a safe place for their child to be cared for, so they can offer the same for other families,” Sen. Wilson said.
SB 5225 also expands eligibility for families in the therapeutic court system to support parents’ success and provide stable, consistent care for their children.
Finally, the bill provides access to childcare for parents who, because of their documentation status, are currently not eligible for the program.
SB 5225 goes into effect on October 1.
