Chamber Roundtable: Childcare Policy Changes Are Coming — Is the Walla Walla Valley Ready?

            Childcare Policy Changes Are Coming — Is the Walla Walla Valley Ready?

Childcare providers, employers, and nonprofit organizations across Washington are closely watching proposed regulatory changes expected to be finalized as the state legislative session concludes on March 12. Many of these proposals could significantly affect childcare operations, staffing requirements, costs, and long-term availability of care for working families.

For communities like the Walla Walla Valley, where access to childcare is already limited, these decisions will directly impact our workforce, our small businesses, and our local economy.

To ensure our region’s voice is heard and our community is prepared, the Walla Walla Valley Chamber of Commerce is convening a Childcare Roundtable bringing together providers, employers, nonprofits, educators, and community leaders.

This working conversation will focus on:

o  Understanding the proposed regulatory changes and potential impacts on local childcare providers

o  Sharing real-world operational challenges providers are facing today

o  Identifying how businesses and community organizations can support solutions

o  Developing a stronger regional voice around childcare policy and workforce needs



Childcare is not only a family issue—it is a workforce infrastructure issue that affects business recruitment, employee retention, and long-term economic stability.

The Chamber remains committed to Championing Business, Building Community, and Driving the Valley’s Economy, and accessible childcare is essential to achieving all three.

If your organization is connected to families, workforce development, education, or economic growth, this is an important conversation to be part of.

Seats are limited to encourage meaningful discussion — reserve your place and be part of the conversation.

3.18.26 8:30am - 10:00am In the Chamber Boardroom