"A land-use ordinance passed by Seattle City Council marks a first step in increasing access to childcare across the city.
Councilmember Dan Strauss (District 6) scored a victory earlier this week when his proposed Childcare Near You ordinance unanimously passed City Council. The ordinance changes Seattle’s land use code to allow for more childcare facilities across the city.
“This was my first bill,” Strauss said. “I want to be clear that increasing access to childcare was one of my first priorities and remains a priority for me.”
Councilmember Strauss has been vocal about the need to address the shortage of childcare providers in the city, which has led to Seattle parents paying some of the highest costs for childcare in the country. On average, Seattle parents can expect to pay more for childcare annually than an in-state student pays for a year of tuition at the University of Washington."