Rep. Mary Fosse (D-Everett), lead sponsor of the bill, said that it’s time for a more equitable and sustainable child care system for working families: “Washington’s child care professionals do some of the most important work in our communities without the pay, benefits, or support they deserve. We have a childcare workforce crisis with constant turnover and persistent staffing shortages, and these conditions are contributing to the lack of available and affordable care. It’s time for much needed reform. This bill doesn’t just recognize the value of this workforce — it gives them a real seat at the table to help shape standards that will sustain this workforce and ensure families throughout our state have access to reliable, high-quality care.” 

Fosse’s bill underscores Washington’s commitment to supporting families and the economy by investing in the professionals who care for our youngest children.  

“I consistently hear from people in my district who are struggling to find affordable, quality child care. HB 1128 will use a proven collaborative model to help improve staffing, recruitment, and retention by gathering expertise from child care workers, providers, parents, and state agencies,” said Sen. Derek Stanford (D- Bothell), sponsor of the companion bill. 

The measure was amended in the Senate, and the House concurred today, so it’s on its way to the governor’s desk. Once enacted, HB 1128 will help address long-standing challenges in the child care sector — including low compensation, high turnover, and staffing shortages. This will ensure those most affected have a voice in recommending employment standards. 

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