HOUSE BILL REPORT
SSB 5901
This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent. |
As of Second Reading
Title: An act relating to eligibility for the early childhood education and assistance program.
Brief Description: Concerning eligibility for the early childhood education and assistance program.
Sponsors: Senate Committee on Ways & Means (originally sponsored by Senator Braun).
Brief History:
Committee Activity:
None.
Brief Summary of Substitute Bill |
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Staff: Kelci Karl-Robinson (786-7116).
Background:
The Early Childhood Education and Assistance Program (ECEAP) is Washington's state-funded preschool program for 3 and 4 year olds. The stated goal of the program is to assist eligible children with educational, social, health, nutritional, and cultural development to enhance their opportunity for success in the common school system. Children are eligible if they are from families with an annual income at or below 110 percent of the federal poverty level, qualify for school district special education services, or have developmental or environmental risk factors that could affect school success. Approved ECEAP providers receive state-funded support through the Department of Early Learning (DEL). Public and private organizations, including school districts, educational service districts, community and technical colleges, local governments, and nonprofit organizations, are eligible to participate as ECEAP providers.
State funding for the ECEAP must be phased in each year until full statewide implementation is achieved in the 2020-21 school year, at which time any eligible child shall be entitled to be enrolled in the ECEAP. Additional eligible children may be admitted to the extent that grants and contributions from community sources provide sufficient funds for a program equivalent to that supported by state funds.
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Summary of Bill:
The requirement to provide the ECEAP to all eligible children is delayed from the 2021-22 school year to the 2022-23 school year.
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Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Available.
Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of the session in which the bill is passed.
Staff Summary of Public Testimony:
(In support) None.
(Opposed) None.
Persons Testifying: None.
Persons Signed In To Testify But Not Testifying: None.