FACT SHEET

ReadyNation Washington’s new report finds that the state’s child care access and affordability crisis, for children birth to 5, costs $6.3 billion in lost earnings and productivity every year. This economic burden impacts Washington’s parents, their employers, and the state’s taxpayers.

Beyond its impact on the current workforce and economy, the child care crisis undermines development of Washington’s future workforce by depriving children of nurturing, stimulating environments that support brain development while their parents work.

The report demonstrates the importance of supporting evidence-based policies that enhance the availability and affordability of high-quality child care. With wise investments, policymakers can improve the lives of Washington families today and strengthen the state’s workforce and economy both now and into the future.