District of ColumbiaB26-0433Council Period 26 (2025-2026)HouseWALLET

Early Childhood Educator Pay Scales Emergency Amendment Act of 2025

Sponsored By: Phil Mendelson (Democratic)

Became Law

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Bill Overview

Analyzed Economic Effects

4 provisions identified: 3 benefits, 0 costs, 1 mixed.

Minimum pay set for ECE teachers

The law sets minimum salaries for assistant and lead early childhood teachers at facilities that take Pay Equity Fund money. From Jan 1 to Sept 30, 2026, those facilities must pay at least the listed amounts. Examples: assistants with a CDA get at least $48,736 a year ($23.43/hour); with an associate or 60 credits $51,576 ($24.80/hour). Lead‑teacher tiers go up to $71,010 ($34.14/hour). The pay‑scale deadline moves up to Dec 31, 2025. The Department can update minimums by rule when funding is available.

ECE Fund payments don't cut benefits

If you get a lump‑sum from the Early Childhood Educator Pay Equity Fund, it does not count as income or assets for many District benefit programs, unless federal law bars it. Programs include D.C. HealthCare Alliance, some scholarships, Home Purchase Assistance, Rent Supplement, and the Grandparent and Close Relative Caregiver programs (including Strong Families, Strong Futures). This protection helps you keep your benefits while receiving ECE pay support.

Dedicated fund backs ECE pay

The law creates a dedicated Early Childhood Educator Pay Equity Fund. It receives $53.92 million (FY2022), $72.89 million (FY2023), $69.51 million (FY2024), $70 million (FY2025), and $72.13 million (FY2026). The Fund pays to run the program and, if the budget and an agreement with the D.C. Health Benefit Exchange are in place, can lower health‑insurance premiums for eligible staff or facilities. Administrative costs are capped at 5% of each year’s deposit. Money does not revert and stays available across years if the budget authorizes it. The 2021 Fund law is repealed and replaced by this framework.

Task force to review ECE pay

The law sets up an Early Childhood Educator Equitable Compensation Task Force. It includes Council and education leaders and 12 local members from families, providers, employees, and an expert. It meets at least every three years starting in 2027 and within 60 days after the Department’s report to send recommendations to the Council. It replaces the 2021 task force law.

Sponsors & Cosponsors

Sponsor

Phil Mendelson
Democratic • House

Cosponsors

There are no cosponsors for this bill.

Roll Call Votes

All Roll Calls

Yes: 13 • No: 0

House vote • 10/21/2025

Final Reading