reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 43 - State Government—Executive › Chapter 43.216 - Department of Children, Youth, and Families. › 43.216.375 - Negotiated rule making—Statewide unit of family child care licensees—Antitrust immunity, intent.

RCW 43.216.375
Negotiated rule making—Statewide unit of family child care licensees—Antitrust immunity, intent.
(1) Solely for the purposes of negotiated rule making pursuant to RCW 34.05.310(2)(a) and * 43.215.350, a statewide unit of all family child care licensees is appropriate. As of June 7, 2006, the exclusive representative of family child care licensees in the statewide unit shall be the representative selected as the majority representative in the election held under the directive of the governor to the secretary of the department of social and health services, dated September 16, 2005. If family child care licensees seek to select a different representative thereafter, the family child care licensees may request that the American arbitration association conduct an election and certify the results of the election.
(2) In enacting this section, the legislature intends to provide state action immunity under federal and state antitrust laws for the joint activities of family child care licensees and their exclusive representative to the extent such activities are authorized by this chapter.
[ 2007 c 17 § 16. Formerly RCW 43.215.355.]
NOTES:
*Reviser's note: RCW 43.215.350 was recodified as RCW 43.216.370 pursuant to 2017 3rd sp.s. c 6 § 821, effective July 1, 2018.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 43 - State Government—Executive › Chapter 43.216 - Department of Children, Youth, and Families. › 43.216.380 - Minimum licensing requirements—Window blind pull cords.

RCW 43.216.380
Minimum licensing requirements—Window blind pull cords.
(1) Minimum licensing requirements under this chapter shall include a prohibition on the use of window blinds or other window coverings with pull cords or inner cords capable of forming a loop and posing a risk of strangulation to young children. Window blinds and other coverings that have been manufactured or properly retrofitted in a manner that eliminates the formation of loops posing a risk of strangulation are not prohibited under this section.
(2) When developing and periodically reviewing minimum licensing requirements related to safety of the premises, the secretary shall consult and give serious consideration to publications of the United States consumer product safety commission.
(3) The department may provide information as available regarding reduced cost or no-cost options for retrofitting or replacing unsafe window blinds and window coverings.
[ 2018 c 58 § 67; 2007 c 299 § 1. Formerly RCW 43.215.360.]
NOTES:
Effective date—2018 c 58: See note following RCW 28A.655.080.
Short title—2007 c 299: "This act may be known and cited as the Jaclyn Frank act." [ 2007 c 299 § 2.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 43 - State Government—Executive › Chapter 43.216 - Department of Children, Youth, and Families. › 43.216.385 - Reporting—Actions against agency licensees—Agencies notified of licensing requirement—Posting on website.

RCW 43.216.385
Reporting—Actions against agency licensees—Agencies notified of licensing requirement—Posting on website.
For the purposes of reporting actions taken against agency licensees, upon the development of an early learning information system, the following actions shall be posted to the department's website accessible by the public: Suspension, surrender, revocation, denial, stayed suspension, or reinstatement of a license. The department shall also post on the website those agencies subject to licensing that have not initiated the licensing process within thirty days of the department's notification as required in *RCW 43.215.300.
[ 2011 c 296 § 2; 2007 c 415 § 9. Formerly RCW 43.215.370.]
NOTES:
*Reviser's note: RCW 43.215.300 was recodified as RCW 43.216.325 pursuant to 2017 3rd sp.s. c 6 § 821, effective July 1, 2018.
Short title—2011 c 296: See note following RCW 43.216.325.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 43 - State Government—Executive › Chapter 43.216 - Department of Children, Youth, and Families. › 43.216.390 - Reporting resignation or termination of individual working in child care agency.

RCW 43.216.390
Reporting resignation or termination of individual working in child care agency.
Upon resignation or termination with or without cause of any individual working in a child care agency, the child care agency shall report to the department within twenty-four hours if it has knowledge of the following with respect to the individual:
(1) Any charge or conviction for a crime listed in WAC 110-06-0120;
(2) Any other charge or conviction for a crime that could be reasonably related to the individual's suitability to provide care for or have unsupervised access to children or care; or
(3) Any negative action as defined in RCW 43.216.010.
[ 2019 c 470 § 13; 2011 c 295 § 6. Formerly RCW 43.215.371.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 43 - State Government—Executive › Chapter 43.216 - Department of Children, Youth, and Families. › 43.216.500 - Intent.

RCW 43.216.500
Intent.
It is the intent of the legislature to establish an early childhood state education and assistance program. This special assistance program is a voluntary enrichment program to help prepare some children to enter the common school system and shall be offered only as funds are available. This program is not a part of the basic program of education which must be fully funded by the legislature under Article IX, section 1 of the state Constitution.
[ 1994 c 166 § 1; 1985 c 418 § 1. Formerly RCW 43.215.400, 28A.215.100, 28A.34A.010.]
NOTES:
Effective date—1994 c 166: "This act shall take effect July 1, 1994." [ 1994 c 166 § 12.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 43 - State Government—Executive › Chapter 43.216 - Department of Children, Youth, and Families. › 43.216.5052 - Definition of "Indian"—Rule making.

RCW 43.216.5052
Definition of "Indian"—Rule making. (Expires December 1, 2030.)
(1) The department must consult, and obtain the advice and consent of, the governing bodies of the state's federally recognized tribes in developing an agreed-upon definition of the term "Indian" for the purposes of RCW 43.216.505 and, by July 1, 2024, must adopt the definition in rule.
(2) This section expires December 1, 2030.
[ 2021 c 199 § 207.]
NOTES:
Findings—Intent—2021 c 199 §§ 204-208: See note following RCW 43.216.513.
Short title—Findings—Intent—Conflict with federal requirements—2021 c 199: See notes following RCW 43.216.770.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 43 - State Government—Executive › Chapter 43.216 - Department of Children, Youth, and Families. › 43.216.510 - Admission and funding.

RCW 43.216.510
Admission and funding.
The department shall administer a state-supported early childhood education and assistance program to assist eligible children with educational, social, health, nutritional, and cultural development to enhance their opportunity for success in the common school system. Eligible children shall be admitted to approved early childhood programs to the extent that the legislature provides funds, and additional children may be admitted to the extent that grants and contributions from community sources provide sufficient funds for a program equivalent to that supported by state funds. Grants and contributions from community sources shall not supplant the funding required for the full statewide implementation of the early learning program in *RCW 43.215.456.
[ 2017 c 178 § 4; 2006 c 265 § 211; 1994 c 166 § 4; 1988 c 174 § 3; 1985 c 418 § 3. Formerly RCW 43.215.410, 28A.215.120, 28A.34A.030.]
NOTES:
*Reviser's note: RCW 43.215.456 was recodified as RCW 43.216.556 pursuant to 2017 3rd sp.s. c 6 § 821, effective July 1, 2018.
Intent—2017 c 178: See note following RCW 43.216.080.
Effective date—1994 c 166: See note following RCW 43.216.500.
Findings—1994 c 166; 1988 c 174: See note following RCW 43.216.505.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 43 - State Government—Executive › Chapter 43.216 - Department of Children, Youth, and Families. › 43.216.514 - Enrollment priority.

RCW 43.216.514
Enrollment priority.
(1)(a) The department shall prioritize children for enrollment in the early childhood education and assistance program who are eligible pursuant to RCW 43.216.505.
(b) A child who is eligible at the time of enrollment in the early childhood education and assistance program maintains program eligibility until the child begins kindergarten.
(2) As space is available, children may be included in the early childhood education and assistance program pursuant to RCW 43.216.512.
[ 2021 c 199 § 507; 2020 c 343 § 3; 2019 c 408 § 7; 2018 c 155 § 3.]
NOTES:
Short title—Findings—Intent—Conflict with federal requirements—2021 c 199: See notes following RCW 43.216.770.
Short title—2020 c 343: "This act may be known and cited as the rural child care access act." [ 2020 c 343 § 1.]
Findings—Intent—2020 c 343: "(1) The legislature finds that many rural communities face child care and early learning supply shortages due to factors that include geographic isolation and fewer providers. These shortages contribute to economic challenges in the child care market, undermining child care affordability for families and threatening the viability of child care businesses. Families deserve access to a full range of child care and early learning choices and providers need stable funding that is essential to meet high quality standards.
(2)The legislature further finds that while federal child care and development fund rules allow child care subsidy rates to exceed private pay rates in order to pay for quality care and health and safety requirements, state rules require child care subsidy rates to be lower than a provider's private pay rate with limited exceptions. This limitation has the effect of forcing child care providers to raise private pay rates when state subsidy rates go up, resulting in families who do not qualify for subsidy leaving licensed care because it has become unaffordable.
(3) Therefore, it is the intent of the legislature to implement policies to relieve providers and families by streamlining child care access, balancing subsidy requirements, and supporting the needs of rural communities." [ 2020 c 343 § 2.]
Findings—Intent—2019 c 408: See note following RCW 43.216.512.
Effective date—Findings—Intent—2018 c 155: See notes following RCW 43.216.512.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 43 - State Government—Executive › Chapter 43.216 - Department of Children, Youth, and Families. › 43.216.520 - Advisory committee.

RCW 43.216.520
Advisory committee.
The department shall establish an advisory committee composed of interested parents and representatives from the office of the superintendent of public instruction, early childhood education and development staff preparation programs, the head start programs, school districts, and such other community and business organizations as deemed necessary by the department to assist with the establishment of the preschool program and advise the department on matters regarding the ongoing promotion and operation of the program.
[ 2017 3rd sp.s. c 6 § 211; 2006 c 263 § 413; 1988 c 174 § 5; 1985 c 418 § 5. Formerly RCW 43.215.420, 28A.215.140, 28A.34A.050.]
NOTES:
Effective date—2017 3rd sp.s. c 6 §§ 102, 104-115, 201-227, 301-337, 401-419, 501-513, 801-803, and 805-822: See note following RCW 43.216.025.
Findings—Purpose—Part headings not law—2006 c 263: See notes following RCW 28A.150.230.
Findings—1994 c 166; 1988 c 174: See note following RCW 43.216.505.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 43 - State Government—Executive › Chapter 43.216 - Department of Children, Youth, and Families. › 43.216.530 - Review of applications.

RCW 43.216.530
Review of applications.
The department shall review applications from public or private organizations for state funding of early childhood education and assistance programs. The department shall consider local community needs, demonstrated capacity, and the need to support a mixed delivery system of early learning that includes alternative models for delivery including licensed centers, outdoor nature-based child care providers, and licensed family child care providers when reviewing applications.
[ 2021 c 304 § 20; 2015 3rd sp.s. c 7 § 10; 2013 c 323 § 7; 1994 c 166 § 8; 1988 c 174 § 7; 1985 c 418 § 7. Formerly RCW 43.215.430, 28A.215.160, 28A.34A.070.]
NOTES:
Finding—Intent—2015 3rd sp.s. c 7: See note following RCW 43.216.085.
Effective date—1994 c 166: See note following RCW 43.216.500.
Findings—1994 c 166; 1988 c 174: See note following RCW 43.216.505.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 43 - State Government—Executive › Chapter 43.216 - Department of Children, Youth, and Families. › 43.216.535 - Reports.

RCW 43.216.535
Reports.
The department shall annually report to the governor and the legislature on the findings of the longitudinal study undertaken to examine and monitor the effectiveness of early childhood educational and assistance services for eligible children to measure, among other elements, if possible, how the average level of performance of children completing this program compare to the average level of performance of all state students in their grade level, and to the average level of performance of those eligible students who did not have access to this program. The evaluation system shall examine how the percentage of these children needing access to special education or remedial programs compares to the overall percentage of children needing such services and compares to the percentage of eligible students who did not have access to this program needing such services.
[ 1995 c 335 § 501; 1994 c 166 § 9; 1988 c 174 § 8; 1985 c 418 § 8. Formerly RCW 43.215.435, 28A.215.170, 28A.34A.080.]
NOTES:
Part headings, table of contents not law—1995 c 335: See note following RCW 28A.150.360.
Effective date—1994 c 166: See note following RCW 43.216.500.
Findings—1994 c 166; 1988 c 174: See note following RCW 43.216.505.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 43 - State Government—Executive › Chapter 43.216 - Department of Children, Youth, and Families. › 43.216.540 - State support—Priorities—Program funding levels.

RCW 43.216.540
State support—Priorities—Program funding levels.
For the purposes of RCW 43.216.500 through 43.216.550 and 43.216.900 and 43.216.901, the department may award state support under RCW 43.216.500 through 43.216.530 to increase the numbers of eligible children assisted by the federal or state-supported early childhood programs in this state. Priority shall be given to those geographical areas which include a high percentage of families qualifying under the "eligible child" criteria. The overall program funding level shall be based on an average grant per child consistent with state appropriations made for program costs: PROVIDED, That programs addressing special needs of selected groups or communities shall be recognized in the department's rules.
[ 2019 c 408 § 11; 1994 c 166 § 10; 1990 c 33 § 214; 1987 c 518 § 102; 1985 c 418 § 9. Formerly RCW 43.215.440, 28A.215.180, 28A.34A.090.]
NOTES:
Findings—Intent—2019 c 408: See note following RCW 43.216.512.
Effective date—1994 c 166: See note following RCW 43.216.500.
Intent—1994 c 166; 1987 c 518: See note following RCW 43.216.525.
Severability—1987 c 518: See note following RCW 43.216.525.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 43 - State Government—Executive › Chapter 43.216 - Department of Children, Youth, and Families. › 43.216.545 - Reimbursement of advisory committee expenses.

RCW 43.216.545
Reimbursement of advisory committee expenses.
The department from funds appropriated for the administration of the program under chapter 418, Laws of 1985 shall reimburse the expenses of the advisory committee.
[ 1985 c 418 § 10. Formerly RCW 43.215.445, 28A.215.190, 28A.34A.100.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 43 - State Government—Executive › Chapter 43.216 - Department of Children, Youth, and Families. › 43.216.550 - Authority to solicit gifts, grants, and support.

RCW 43.216.550
Authority to solicit gifts, grants, and support.
The department may solicit gifts, grants, conveyances, bequests and devises for the use or benefit of the early childhood state education and assistance program established by RCW 43.216.500 through 43.216.550 and 43.216.900 and 43.216.901. The department shall actively solicit support from business and industry and from the federal government for the state early childhood education and assistance program and shall assist local programs in developing partnerships with the community for eligible children.
[ 2019 c 408 § 12; 1994 c 166 § 11; 1990 c 33 § 215; 1988 c 174 § 9; 1985 c 418 § 11. Formerly RCW 43.215.450, 28A.215.200, 28A.34A.110.]
NOTES:
Findings—Intent—2019 c 408: See note following RCW 43.216.512.
Effective date—1994 c 166: See note following RCW 43.216.500.
Findings—1994 c 166; 1988 c 174: See note following RCW 43.216.505.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 43 - State Government—Executive › Chapter 43.216 - Department of Children, Youth, and Families. › 43.216.555 - Early learning program—Voluntary preschool opportunities—Program standards—Prioritizing programs—Rules.

RCW 43.216.555
Early learning program—Voluntary preschool opportunities—Program standards—Prioritizing programs—Rules.
(1) An early learning program to provide voluntary preschool opportunities for children ages three to five years old who are not age-eligible for kindergarten shall be implemented according to the funding and implementation plan in RCW 43.216.556. The program must offer a comprehensive program of early childhood education and family support, including parental involvement and health information, screening, and referral services, based on family need. Participation in the program is voluntary. On a space available basis, the program may allow enrollment of children who are not otherwise eligible by assessing a fee.
(2) The program shall be implemented by utilizing the program standards and eligibility criteria in the early childhood education and assistance program in RCW 43.216.500 through 43.216.550.
(3)(a) The program implementation in this section shall prioritize early childhood education and assistance programs located in low-income neighborhoods within high-need geographical areas.
(b) Following the priority in (a) of this subsection, preference shall be given to programs meeting at least one of the following characteristics:
(i) Programs offering an extended day program for early care and education;
(ii) Programs offering services to children diagnosed with a special need; or
(iii) Programs offering services to children involved in the child welfare system.
(4) The secretary shall adopt rules for the following program components, as appropriate and necessary during the phased implementation of the program, consistent with early achievers program standards established in RCW 43.216.085:
(a) Minimum program standards;
(b) Approval of program providers; and
(c) Accountability and adherence to performance standards.
(5) The department has administrative responsibility for:
(a) Approving and contracting with providers according to rules developed by the secretary under this section;
(b) In partnership with school districts, monitoring program quality and assuring the program is responsive to the needs of eligible children;
(c) Assuring that program providers work cooperatively with school districts to coordinate the transition from preschool to kindergarten so that children and their families are well-prepared and supported; and
(d) Providing technical assistance to contracted providers.
[ 2019 c 408 § 9; 2018 c 155 § 4; 2018 c 58 § 34; 2015 3rd sp.s. c 7 § 11; 2010 c 231 § 3. Formerly RCW 43.215.455, 43.215.141.]
NOTES:
Findings—Intent—2019 c 408: See note following RCW 43.216.512.
Effective date—Findings—Intent—2018 c 155: See notes following RCW 43.216.512.
Effective date—2018 c 58: See note following RCW 28A.655.080.
Finding—Intent—2015 3rd sp.s. c 7: See note following RCW 43.216.085.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 43 - State Government—Executive › Chapter 43.216 - Department of Children, Youth, and Families. › 43.216.556 - Early learning program—Funding and statewide implementation.

RCW 43.216.556
Early learning program—Funding and statewide implementation.
(1) Funding for the program of early learning established under this chapter must be appropriated to the department. The department shall distribute funding to approved early childhood education and assistance program contractors on the basis of eligible children enrolled.
(2) The program shall be implemented in phases, so that full implementation is achieved in the 2026-27 school year.
(3) Funding shall continue to be phased in each year until full statewide implementation of the early learning program is achieved in the 2026-27 school year, at which time any eligible child is entitled to be enrolled in the program. Entitlement under this section is voluntary enrollment.
(4) School districts and approved community-based early learning providers may contract with the department to provide services under the program. The department shall collaborate with school districts, community-based providers, and educational service districts to promote an adequate supply of approved providers.
[ 2021 c 199 § 208; 2019 c 408 § 3; 2017 3rd sp.s. c 22 § 1; 2015 3rd sp.s. c 7 § 12; 2015 c 128 § 4; 2010 c 231 § 4. Formerly RCW 43.215.456, 43.215.142.]
NOTES:
Findings—Intent—2021 c 199 §§ 204-208: See note following RCW 43.216.513.
Short title—Findings—Intent—Conflict with federal requirements—2021 c 199: See notes following RCW 43.216.770.
Findings—Intent—2019 c 408: See note following RCW 43.216.512.
Finding—Intent—2015 3rd sp.s. c 7: See note following RCW 43.216.085.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 43 - State Government—Executive › Chapter 43.216 - Department of Children, Youth, and Families. › 43.216.559 - Early learning program—Short title—2010 c 231.

RCW 43.216.559
Early learning program—Short title—2010 c 231.
Chapter 231, Laws of 2010 may be known as the ready for school act of 2010.
[ 2010 c 231 § 9. Formerly RCW 43.215.457, 43.215.143.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 43 - State Government—Executive › Chapter 43.216 - Department of Children, Youth, and Families. › 43.216.565 - Findings—Intent—Early start program.

RCW 43.216.565
Findings—Intent—Early start program.
The legislature finds that the first five years of a child's life establish the foundation for educational success. The legislature also finds that children who have high quality early learning opportunities from birth through age five are more likely to succeed throughout their K-12 education and beyond. The legislature further finds that the benefits of high quality early learning experiences are particularly significant for low-income parents and children, and provide an opportunity to narrow the opportunity gap in Washington's K-12 educational system. The legislature understands that early supports for high-risk parents of young children through home visiting services show a high return on investment due to significantly improved chances of better education, health, and life outcomes for children. The legislature further recognizes that, when parents work or go to school, high quality and full-day early learning opportunities should be available and accessible for their children. In order to improve education outcomes, particularly for low-income children, the legislature is committed to expanding high quality early learning opportunities and integrating currently disparate funding streams for all birth-to-five early learning services including , working connections child care and the early childhood education and assistance program, into a single high quality continuum of learning that provides essential services to low-income families and prepares all enrolled children for success in school. The legislature therefore intends to establish the early start program to provide a continuum of high quality and accountable early learning opportunities for Washington's parents and children.
[ 2013 c 323 § 1. Formerly RCW 43.215.460.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 43 - State Government—Executive › Chapter 43.216 - Department of Children, Youth, and Families. › 43.216.567 - Early therapeutic and preventative services and programs.

RCW 43.216.567
Early therapeutic and preventative services and programs.
(1) Subject to the availability of amounts appropriated for this specific purpose, the department shall administer early therapeutic and preventative services and programs, such as the early childhood intervention and prevention services program, and other related services for children who are:
(a) Between the ages of birth and five years; and
(b) Referred by a child welfare worker, a department of social and health services social worker, a primary care physician, a behavioral health provider, or a public health nurse due to: (i) Risk of child abuse or neglect; (ii) exposure to complex trauma; or (iii) significant developmental delays.
(2) Subject to the availability of amounts appropriated for this specific purpose, the department shall make all reasonable efforts to deliver early therapeutic and preventative services and programs statewide. These services and programs must focus first on children and families furthest from opportunity as defined by income and be delivered by programs that emphasize greater racial equity.
[ 2021 c 199 § 405.]
NOTES:
Findings—Intent—2021 c 199 §§ 402-405: See note following RCW 43.216.577.
Short title—Findings—Intent—Conflict with federal requirements—2021 c 199: See notes following RCW 43.216.770.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 43 - State Government—Executive › Chapter 43.216 - Department of Children, Youth, and Families. › 43.216.570 - Early intervention services—Findings.

RCW 43.216.570
Early intervention services—Findings.
The legislature finds that there is an urgent and substantial need to:
(1) Enhance the development of infants and toddlers with disabilities in the state of Washington in order to minimize developmental delay and maximize individual potential and enhance the capability of families to meet the needs of their infants and toddlers with disabilities and maintain family integrity;
(2) Coordinate and enhance the state's existing early intervention services to ensure a statewide, community-based, coordinated, interagency program of early intervention services for infants and toddlers with disabilities and their families; and
(3) Facilitate the coordination of payment for early intervention services from federal, state, local, and private sources including public and private insurance coverage.
[ 1992 c 198 § 14. Formerly RCW 43.215.470, 70.195.005.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 43 - State Government—Executive › Chapter 43.216 - Department of Children, Youth, and Families. › 43.216.572 - Early intervention services—Infants and toddlers with disabilities—Interagency coordinating council—Conditions and limitations.

RCW 43.216.572
Early intervention services—Infants and toddlers with disabilities—Interagency coordinating council—Conditions and limitations.
For the purposes of implementing this chapter, the governor shall appoint a state interagency coordinating council for infants and toddlers with disabilities and their families and ensure that state agencies involved in the provision of, or payment for, early intervention services to infants and toddlers with disabilities and their families shall coordinate and collaborate in the planning and delivery of such services.
No state or local agency currently providing early intervention services to infants and toddlers with disabilities may use funds appropriated for early intervention services for infants and toddlers with disabilities to supplant funds from other sources.
All state and local agencies shall ensure that the implementation of this chapter will not cause any interruption in existing early intervention services for infants and toddlers with disabilities.
Nothing in this chapter shall be construed to permit the restriction or reduction of eligibility under Title V of the Social Security Act, P.L. 90-248, relating to maternal and child health or Title XIX of the Social Security Act, P.L. 89-97, relating to medicaid for infants and toddlers with disabilities.
[ 2020 c 114 § 6; 2016 c 57 § 1; 1998 c 245 § 125; 1992 c 198 § 15. Formerly RCW 43.215.472, 70.195.010.]
NOTES:
Effective date—2020 c 114: See note following RCW 28A.175.075.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 43 - State Government—Executive › Chapter 43.216 - Department of Children, Youth, and Families. › 43.216.574 - Early intervention services—Infants and toddlers with disabilities—Interagency coordinating council—Coordination with counties and communities.

RCW 43.216.574
Early intervention services—Infants and toddlers with disabilities—Interagency coordinating council—Coordination with counties and communities.
The state interagency coordinating council for infants and toddlers with disabilities and their families shall identify and work with county early childhood interagency coordinating councils to coordinate and enhance existing early intervention services and assist each community to meet the needs of infants and toddlers with disabilities and their families.
[ 2020 c 114 § 7; 2016 c 57 § 2; 1992 c 198 § 17. Formerly RCW 43.215.474, 70.195.020.]
NOTES:
Effective date—2020 c 114: See note following RCW 28A.175.075.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 43 - State Government—Executive › Chapter 43.216 - Department of Children, Youth, and Families. › 43.216.576 - Early intervention services—Interagency agreements.

RCW 43.216.576
Early intervention services—Interagency agreements.
The department shall enter into formal interagency agreements, where appropriate, with school districts, counties, and other providers, to define their relationships and financial and service responsibilities. Local agencies or entities, including local school districts, counties, and service providers receiving public money for providing or paying for early intervention services shall enter into formal interagency agreements with each other that define their relationships and financial responsibilities to provide services within each county. In establishing priorities, school districts, counties, and other service providers shall give due regard to the needs of children birth to three years of age and shall ensure that they continue to participate in providing services and collaborate with each other. The interagency agreements shall include procedures for resolving disputes, provisions for establishing maintenance requirements, and all additional components necessary to ensure collaboration and coordination.
[ 2020 c 90 § 5; 1992 c 198 § 16. Formerly RCW 43.215.476, 70.195.030.]
NOTES:
Effective date—2020 c 90: See note following RCW 43.216.580.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 43 - State Government—Executive › Chapter 43.216 - Department of Children, Youth, and Families. › 43.216.579 - Infant child care incentives.

RCW 43.216.579
Infant child care incentives.
(1) The legislature finds that our state suffers from an extreme shortage of infant child care, impacting the ability of parents to participate in the workforce. Further, parents returning to work after using paid family leave to care for a new child struggle to find readily available, high quality care during a time of critical growth and brain development for young children. Therefore, the legislature intends to incentivize the provision of high quality infant care.
(2) Beginning July 1, 2022, the department shall provide an infant rate enhancement for licensed or certified child care providers and birth to three early childhood education and assistance program contractors who are:
(a) Accepting state subsidy;
(b) In good standing with the early achievers quality rating and improvement system; and
(c) Caring for a child between the ages of birth and 11 months.
(3) The department must adopt rules to implement this section.
[ 2021 c 199 § 404.]
NOTES:
Findings—Intent—2021 c 199 §§ 402-405: See note following RCW 43.216.577.
Short title—Findings—Intent—Conflict with federal requirements—2021 c 199: See notes following RCW 43.216.770.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 43 - State Government—Executive › Chapter 43.216 - Department of Children, Youth, and Families. › 43.216.580 - Early intervention services—Funding.

RCW 43.216.580
Early intervention services—Funding.
(1) The department is the state lead agency for Part C of the federal individuals with disabilities education act. The department shall administer the early support for infants and toddlers program, to provide early intervention services to all eligible children with disabilities from birth to three years of age. Eligibility shall be determined according to Part C of the federal individuals with disabilities education act or other applicable federal and state laws, and as specified in the Washington Administrative Code adopted by the department. Services provided under this section shall not supplant services or funding currently provided in the state for early intervention services to eligible children with disabilities from birth to three years of age.
(2)(a) Funding for the early support for infants and toddlers program shall be appropriated to the department based on the annual average head count of children ages birth to three who are eligible for and receiving early intervention services, multiplied by the total statewide allocation generated by the distribution formula under RCW  28A.150.260 (4)(a), (5), (6), and (8) and the allocation under RCW  28A.150.415, per the statewide full-time equivalent enrollment in common schools, multiplied by 1.15.
(b) The department shall distribute funds to early intervention services providers, and, when appropriate, to county lead agencies.
(c) For the purposes of this subsection (2), a child is receiving early intervention services if the child has received services within a month prior to the monthly count day.
(3) Federal funds associated with Part C of the federal individuals with disabilities education act shall be subject to payor of last resort requirements pursuant to 34 C.F.R. Sec. 303.510 (2020) for birth-to-three early intervention services provided under this section.
(4) The services in this section are not part of the state's program of basic education pursuant to Article IX of the state Constitution.
[ 2020 c 90 § 1; 2017 3rd sp.s. c 6 § 216; 2016 c 57 § 3; 2007 c 115 § 7; 2006 c 269 § 2. Formerly RCW 28A.155.065.]
NOTES:
Effective date—2020 c 90: "This act takes effect September 1, 2020." [ 2020 c 90 § 10.]
Effective date—2017 3rd sp.s. c 6 §§ 102, 104-115, 201-227, 301-337, 401-419, 501-513, 801-803, and 805-822: See note following RCW 43.216.025.
Conflict with federal requirements—2017 3rd sp.s. c 6: See RCW 43.216.908.
Finding—2006 c 269: "The legislature finds an urgent and substantial need to enhance the development of all infants and toddlers with disabilities in Washington in order to minimize developmental delays and to maximize individual potential for learning and functioning." [ 2006 c 269 § 1.]
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 43 - State Government—Executive › Chapter 43.216 - Department of Children, Youth, and Families. › 43.216.585 - Program rates.

RCW 43.216.585
Program rates. (Expires June 30, 2027.)
(1) For the 2021-22 school year, rates for the early childhood education and assistance program must be set at a level at least 10 percent higher than the rates established in section 225, chapter 415, Laws of 2019.
(2) It is the intent of the legislature that rate increases shall be informed by the department's 2020 early childhood education and assistance program rate study.
(3) This section expires June 30, 2027.
[ 2021 c 199 § 302.]
NOTES:
Short title—Findings—Intent—Conflict with federal requirements—2021 c 199: See notes following RCW 43.216.770.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 43 - State Government—Executive › Chapter 43.216 - Department of Children, Youth, and Families. › 43.216.587 - Complex needs funds.

RCW 43.216.587
Complex needs funds.
(1) Subject to the availability of amounts appropriated for this specific purpose, the department shall administer two complex needs funds to promote inclusive, least restrictive environments and to support contractors and providers serving children who have developmental delays, disabilities, behavioral needs, or other unique needs. The department shall work collaboratively with the office of the superintendent of public instruction and providers to best serve children. One fund must support early childhood education and assistance program contractors and providers and birth to three early childhood education and assistance program contractors and providers, and one fund must support licensed or certified child care providers and license-exempt child care programs.
(2) Support may include staffing, programming, therapeutic services, and equipment or technology support. Additional support may include activities to assist families with children expelled or at risk of expulsion from child care, and to help families transition in and out of child care.
[ 2021 c 199 § 303.]
NOTES:
Short title—Findings—Intent—Conflict with federal requirements—2021 c 199: See notes following RCW 43.216.770.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 43 - State Government—Executive › Chapter 43.216 - Department of Children, Youth, and Families. › 43.216.590 - Trauma-informed care supports.

RCW 43.216.590
Trauma-informed care supports.
(1) Beginning July 1, 2022, the department shall provide supports to aid eligible providers in providing trauma-informed care. Trauma-informed care supports may be used by eligible providers for the following purposes:
(a) Additional compensation for individual staff who have an infant and early childhood mental health or other child development specialty credential;
(b) Trauma-informed professional development and training;
(c) The purchase of screening tools and assessment materials;
(d) Supportive services for children with complex needs that are offered as fee-for-service within local communities; or
(e) Other related expenses.
(2) The department must adopt rules to implement this section.
(3) For the purposes of this section, "eligible provider" means: (a) An employee or owner of a licensed or certified child care center or outdoor nature-based care accepting state subsidy; (b) an employee or owner of a licensed family home provider accepting state subsidy; (c) a contractor or provider of the early childhood education and assistance program or birth to three early childhood education and assistance program; (d) a license-exempt child care program; or (e) an early achievers coach.
[ 2021 c 199 § 304.]
NOTES:
Short title—Findings—Intent—Conflict with federal requirements—2021 c 199: See notes following RCW 43.216.770.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 43 - State Government—Executive › Chapter 43.216 - Department of Children, Youth, and Families. › 43.216.592 - Dual language designation—Rate enhancement.

RCW 43.216.592
Dual language designation—Rate enhancement.
(1) Beginning July 1, 2022, the department shall establish a dual language designation and provide subsidy rate enhancements or site-specific grants for licensed or certified child care providers who are accepting state subsidy; early childhood education and assistance program contractors; or birth to three early childhood education and assistance program contractors. It is the intent of the legislature to allow uses of rate enhancements or site-specific grants to include increased wages for individual staff who provide bilingual instruction, professional development training, the purchase of dual language and culturally appropriate curricula and accompanying training programs, instructional materials, or other related expenses.
(2) The department must consult with a culturally and linguistically diverse stakeholder advisory group to develop criteria for the dual language designation.
(3) The department must adopt rules to implement this section.
[ 2021 c 199 § 305.]
NOTES:
Short title—Findings—Intent—Conflict with federal requirements—2021 c 199: See notes following RCW 43.216.770.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 43 - State Government—Executive › Chapter 43.216 - Department of Children, Youth, and Families. › 43.216.595 - Early childhood equity grants.

RCW 43.216.595
Early childhood equity grants.
(1) Subject to the availability of amounts appropriated for this specific purpose, the department shall distribute early childhood equity grants to eligible applicants. Eligible applicants include play and learn groups, licensed or certified child care centers and family home providers, license-exempt child care programs, and early childhood education and assistance program contractors. The equity grants are intended to serve as a step toward expanding access to early learning statewide and transforming Washington's early learning system to make it more inclusive and equitable. The department shall administer the early childhood equity grants to support inclusive and culturally and linguistically specific early learning and early childhood and parent support programs across the state.
(2) The department must conduct an equitable process to prioritize grant applications for early childhood equity grant assistance. An eligible applicant may receive an early childhood equity grant once every two years. When conducting the equitable grant process, the department must:
(a) Solicit project applications from a racially and geographically diverse pool of eligible applicants statewide;
(b) Provide application materials in the five most commonly spoken languages in the state and broadly communicate using a variety of strategies to reach diverse communities;
(c) Require applicants to demonstrate their proposed uses of early childhood equity grant funds to incorporate either inclusive practices or culturally and linguistically supportive and relevant practices, or both, into early learning program design, delivery, education, training, and evaluation; and
(d) Provide technical assistance to any applicant who needs it.
[ 2021 c 199 § 307.]
NOTES:
Short title—Findings—Intent—Conflict with federal requirements—2021 c 199: See notes following RCW 43.216.770.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 43 - State Government—Executive › Chapter 43.216 - Department of Children, Youth, and Families. › 43.216.597 - Play and learn groups—Resources and supports.

RCW 43.216.597
Play and learn groups—Resources and supports.
Subject to the availability of amounts appropriated for this specific purpose, the department, in consultation with community-based programs, shall provide or contract to provide, or both, resources and supports for inclusive and culturally and linguistically relevant play and learn groups. Play and learn groups offer parents and other caregivers culturally responsive opportunities to support their children's early learning, build relationships that reduce isolation and encourage socialization, and promote kindergarten readiness.
[ 2021 c 199 § 310.]
NOTES:
Short title—Findings—Intent—Conflict with federal requirements—2021 c 199: See notes following RCW 43.216.770.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 43 - State Government—Executive › Chapter 43.216 - Department of Children, Youth, and Families. › 43.216.600 - Professional development supports.

RCW 43.216.600
Professional development supports.
(1) Subject to the availability of amounts appropriated for this specific purpose, the department shall provide professional development supports to aid eligible providers in reaching the professional education and training standards adopted by the department. Professional development supports may include:
(a) Department-required trainings for child care providers conducted by department-approved trainers;
(b) Trainings for license-exempt family, friend, and neighbor child care providers conducted by department-approved trainers;
(c) Early achievers scholarships;
(d) Community-based training pathways and systems developed under RCW 43.216.755;
(e) Supporting a nonprofit organization that provides relationship-based professional development support to family, friend, and neighbor caregivers, child care centers, and licensed family home providers, and their work to help providers start their businesses; and
(f) Other professional development activities such as updating training content, data collection and reporting, trainer recruitment, retention, program monitoring, and trainings delivered by department-approved trainers on topics such as small business management, antibias and antiracist training, providing care for children with developmental disabilities, social-emotional learning, implementing inclusionary practices in early learning environments, infant and toddler care, dual language program development, and providing trauma-informed care.
(2) For the purposes of this section, "eligible provider" means: (a) An owner of a licensed or certified child care center, licensed or certified outdoor nature-based care, or licensed family home provider accepting state subsidy; (b) an employee of a licensed or certified child care center, licensed or certified outdoor nature-based care, or a licensed family home provider; (c) a contractor or provider of the early childhood education and assistance program or birth to three early childhood education and assistance program; or (d) an early achievers coach.
[ 2021 c 199 § 311.]
NOTES:
Short title—Findings—Intent—Conflict with federal requirements—2021 c 199: See notes following RCW 43.216.770.
2023 Revised Code of Washington › Title 43 - State Government—Executive › Chapter 43.216 - Department of Children, Youth, and Families. › 43.216.602 - Child care deserts grant program.

RCW 43.216.602
Child care deserts grant program. (Expires June 30, 2026.)
(1) Subject to the availability of amounts appropriated for this specific purpose, the department shall establish a grant program to expand child care in child care deserts. Grants must be used for one-time costs associated with the opening of a child care site, including program costs, for providers who are newly licensed or are in the process of becoming licensed.
(2) The department must use the child care industry insights dashboard from the child care industry assessment as a tool to identify areas in which additional investments are needed in order to expand existing child care capacity to meet family demand and reduce child care deserts.
(3) This section expires June 30, 2026.
[ 2021 c 199 § 314.]
NOTES:
Short title—Findings—Intent—Conflict with federal requirements—2021 c 199: See notes following RCW 43.216.770.