SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 6757

BYSenators Anderson, McDonald and Wojahn

Regulating and licensing day care centers.

Senate Committee on Economic Development & Labor

Senate Hearing Date(s):January 24, 1990

Senate Staff:Jonathan Seib (786-7427)

AS OF JANUARY 23, 1990

BACKGROUND:

As Washington's workforce changes, the need for child care continues to be greater than the supply.  However, state and local regulations governing child care are said to often be duplicative and conflicting, while not serving a clear purpose.  This diminishes the desire and ability of many, particularly businesses, to provide child care.  The Department of Social and Health Services is reviewing and rewriting its licensing procedures to streamline and "functionalize" them.  Conflict and duplication at the local level have not yet been addressed.

SUMMARY:

Licensure by the Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) shall be the only prerequisite to operating a child care facility in the state.  Facilities licensed by DSHS shall not be subject to any other state or local licensing or zoning regulations.

Appropriation:  none

Revenue:   none

Fiscal Note:    requested