The bill aims to provide free school meals to all K-12 students in Washington state, starting in the 2023-24 school year. It mandates that each school district offer breakfast and lunch at no charge to any student who requests it, regardless of their eligibility for federally reimbursed meals. This requirement particularly applies to public schools serving grades K-4 with a certain percentage of students qualifying for free or reduced-price lunches. The bill also includes provisions for state reimbursement to school districts for meals not covered by federal funds and encourages the purchase of locally produced food. Additionally, it amends existing laws to streamline the implementation of school meal programs, repeals outdated provisions, and clarifies definitions related to these programs.

Moreover, the bill addresses the allocation of state funding for prototypical schools, establishing minimum allocations based on the number of full-time equivalent classroom teachers and specific average class sizes for various grade levels. It introduces enhanced funding for class size reduction in laboratory science classes and outlines minimum staffing allocations for support roles such as nurses and counselors. The bill also emphasizes flexibility in the distribution of basic education instructional allocations, requiring transparency in reporting state per-pupil allocations. Key changes include updated definitions, adjustments to class size limits, and provisions for bonuses for certificated instructional staff achieving national board certification. Overall, the legislation represents a significant effort to enhance educational support and resources, particularly for high-poverty areas and students requiring additional assistance.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 28A.150.200, 28A.235.250, 28A.235.270, 28A.235.285, 28A.600.290, 28A.150.260, 43.62.050
Substitute Bill: 28A.150.200, 28A.235.250, 28A.235.270, 28A.235.285, 28A.600.290, 28A.150.260, 43.62.050
Second Substitute: 28A.150.260, 43.62.050, 28A.235.140
Engrossed Second Substitute: 28A.150.260, 43.62.050, 28A.235.140
Bill as Passed Legislature: 28A.150.260, 43.62.050, 28A.235.300, 28A.235.140
Session Law: 28A.150.260, 43.62.050, 28A.235.300, 28A.235.140