Modifying the working connections child care program.

SB 6353 expands access to Washington's Working Connections Child Care program by gradually raising income eligibility limits for families with children. Starting in 2029, families earning up to 75% of the state median income (adjusted for family size) will qualify, and by 2031, this rises to 85%. The bill also mandates that child care subsidy rates reach 85% of the market rate for licensed providers by 2026 and 75% by 2027, using updated cost models to better cover providers' actual costs. These changes directly affect low-to-moderate-income working families and licensed child care providers who receive state subsidies.