Affordable Child Care, Living Wages for Staff, and Universal Free Preschool
This bill limits child care costs for families to a maximum of 7% of their income and makes it completely free for households earning not more than 85% of the state median income. It establishes a universal free preschool program for 3- and 4-year-olds while ensuring child care workers receive living wages comparable to elementary school teachers.
Key points
Families earning not more than 85% of the state median income pay nothing for child care, while others pay a maximum of 7% of their income.
Creation of a universal, free preschool program available to all 3- and 4-year-old children.
Mandates that child care workers receive a living wage and compensation equivalent to elementary school educators.
Provides grants to child care providers to improve quality, safety, and expand the number of available slots.
Introduced
Additional Information
Print number: 119_S_2295
Sponsor: Sen. Murray, Patty [D-WA]
Process start date: 2025-07-15