Concerning child care subsidy rates.

SB 5310 increases Washington state child care subsidy rates to cover 75% of the market rate for licensed or certified providers, starting July 1, 2025. It requires the state to develop a cost model to eventually cover the full cost of quality child care, considering factors like location and cost of living. The bill directly affects licensed child care centers, family home providers, and outdoor nature-based providers receiving state subsidies. It also mandates bargaining with family child care home providers over implementation and declares an emergency to expedite the change. The policy aims to align subsidies with actual provider costs while maintaining current bargaining rights.