OLYMPIA – State Representative Kristine Reeves, D-Federal Way, is recognized in Olympia for spearheading legislation to increase affordability and access to childcare this year. Because of her efforts, Reeves has been appointed to the Child Care Collaborative Task Force. The governor-appointed task force, a creation from a new law passed by Reeves, brings together the key players in childcare: the business community, parents, early learning advocates, childcare providers, and lawmakers.
The group is tasked with exploring new options to lower childcare costs and increase access for Washington’s working and middle class families. The group’s recommendations to the legislature could include suggestions on employer-supported care, tax incentives, or other options not yet discussed.
“This task force is the next step toward meaningful improvement for Washington families that struggle with that monthly childcare bill,” said Reeves. “As a working mom, I understand the difficult choices families have to make—especially when it means choosing to work and finding childcare that meets their needs. Now we can begin the discussion that moves us toward a public-private partnership that puts people first, let’s families find the childcare that is best for their children, while achieving greater financial freedom.”
The first meeting of the task force has not been scheduled but must occur by September 1, 2018. Final recommendations to the legislature must be submitted by November 1, 2019.