Kagi introduces legislation to improve quality of childcares and preschools in state

Rep. Ruth Kagi, D-32, Chair of the House Early Learning and Human Services Committee, and Senator Steve Litzow, Chair of the Senate Early Learning and K-12 Education Committee, introduced bills in the state legislature to improve the quality of Washington’s childcares and preschools.

The two bills, HB 1491 and SB 5452, are companions and are both called “The Early Start Act.”

The legislation recognizes the brain science and the positive long-term impact early learning has on a child’s school readiness, overall health and life. The Early Start Act builds on the practices, high-quality programs and policies that have made Washington state a nationally recognized leader in early learning.

“We know that almost half our state’s children arrive at kindergarten unprepared to learn,” Rep. Kagi said. “We must close the opportunity gap. Early learning is an essential part of the solution for fulfilling our constitutional obligation to educate all children. The Early Start Act will help our children succeed in school and in life.”

Rep. Kagi represents the 32nd Legislative District in the State House of Representative. The district includes all of Shoreline, portions of north Seattle, and portions of Edmonds.

Sen. David Frockt, D-46, representing Lake Forest Park, Kenmore, and northeast Seattle has signed on to the Senate bill. Rep. Jessyn Farrell, D-46, has signed on the the House bill.