FINAL BILL REPORT

SSB 6226

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.

Sponsors: Senate Committee on Human Services & Corrections (originally sponsored by Senators Frockt, Harper, Regala, Zarelli, Fain, Hargrove, Kohl-Welles and Keiser).

Senate Committee on Human Services & Corrections

House Committee on Early Learning & Human Services

House Committee on Ways & Means

Background: Eligibility for subsidized child care – Working Connections Child Care (WCCC) – must currently be re-authorized every six months, unless the child is also enrolled in an Early Childhood Education and Assistance Program (EACAP), Head Start, or an early Head Start program, in which case re-authorizations need occur only every 12 months. If a change in circumstances occurs during the 12-month period, then the reauthorization would have to occur earlier than 12 months.

Summary: Eligibility for subsidized child care must be re-authorized every 12 months for all recipients of subsidized child care services, regardless of whether the child is also enrolled in EACAP, Head Start, or early Head Start. If a change in circumstances occurs, the reauthorization would have to occur earlier than 12 months. The 12-month certification applies only if enrollments in WCCC or child subsidies are capped.

An applicant or recipient of WCCC must provide DSHS the following information, if appropriate: (1) notification to DSHS within five days if the provider changes; and (2) notification to DSHS within ten days about any significant change related to the number of child care hours the applicant or recipient needs, cost sharing, or eligibility.

Votes on Final Passage:

Senate	48	0
House	97	1	(House amended)
Senate	48	0	(Senate concurred)