HB 1126 - DIGEST

Provides that administration and funding of this program shall be shifted to the department no later than December 1, 2005. All existing contracts with program providers entered into for the 2005-06 school year with the department of community, trade, and economic development shall remain in full force and effect and shall be the responsibility of the department. All funds designated for this program remaining at the department of community, trade, and economic development after December 1, 2005, shall be transferred to the department.

Creates a nine-member steering committee, which committee shall advise the department on the ongoing promotion and operation of the early childhood education and assistance program. This advice shall include: (1) Program standards, which shall be guided by appropriate research;

(2) Development of partnerships among providers of early learning programs;

(3) Development of opportunities for professional development; and

(4) Identifying opportunities to build upon existing programs and resources by increasing program quality, connecting related services, and simplifying program administration.

Repeals RCW 28A.215.140 and 28A.215.190.