The bill seeks to promote the transition of Washington school districts to zero emission school buses, highlighting the significance of clean transportation for public health and environmental justice. It establishes a grant program administered by the Department of Ecology to fund the planning, acquisition, and necessary infrastructure for zero emission buses, with a focus on districts serving overburdened communities and those currently using older diesel buses. A key provision mandates that once the total cost of ownership for zero emission buses is equal to or less than that of diesel buses, school districts will only receive reimbursement for zero emission bus purchases, unless exceptions are granted.

Additionally, the legislation requires the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction to conduct a survey by November 2024 to assess the current charging and refueling capacity for zero emission vehicles in school districts, their plans for applying for funding, and details about any older buses still in use. The bill includes important definitions and establishes a framework for prioritizing funding based on community needs and existing infrastructure. A report summarizing the survey findings is to be submitted to the legislature by December 1, 2024, which will inform future legislative and funding decisions to support the transition to zero emission vehicles in the education sector.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 28A.160.130, 28A.160.195, 28A.160.205
Substitute Bill: 28A.160.130, 28A.160.195
Second Substitute: 28A.160.140, 28A.160.195
Engrossed Second Substitute: 28A.160.140, 28A.160.195
Bill as Passed Legislature: 28A.160.195, 28A.160.140
Session Law: 28A.160.195, 28A.160.140