SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 6540

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 February 7, 2020

Title: An act relating to working connections child care payment authorizations.

Brief Description: Concerning working connections child care payment authorizations.

Sponsors: Senators Wilson, C., Wellman, Dhingra, Hasegawa, Kuderer and Saldaña.

Brief History:

Committee Activity: Early Learning & K-12 Education: 1/31/20.

Brief Summary of Bill

Begins a household's 12-month authorization for the Working Connections Child Care program on the first day a child receives care from an authorized child care provider.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON EARLY LEARNING & K-12 EDUCATION

Staff: Ailey Kato (786-7434)

Background: Working Connections Child Care (WCCC) is a federally and state-funded program providing child care subsidies to families with an income at or below 200 percent of the federal poverty level—$43,440 for a family of three. The state pays part of the cost of child care when a parent is employed, self-employed, or in approved activities, except in certain circumstances. The family is responsible for making a copayment to the child care provider based on the family's countable income.

Authorizations for WCCC subsidy are effective for 12 months. Under rule, the Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) begins the 12-month period when the parent has completed the required WCCC application and verification process and is working or participating in an approved activity.

Summary of Bill: A household's 12-month authorization period begins on the first day a child receives care from an authorized child care provider. If a newly eligible household does not begin care within 12 months of being determined eligible, the household must reapply in order to qualify for subsidy.

Existing statutory language is moved into a new section.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Available.

Creates Committee/Commission/Task Force that includes Legislative members: No.

Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.

Staff Summary of Public Testimony: PRO: This bill provides a 12-month window of opportunity for child care. Currently, the 12-month clock starts before a family may actually be able to find care.

Persons Testifying: PRO: Senator Claire Wilson, Prime Sponsor.

Persons Signed In To Testify But Not Testifying: No one.