This bill amends several sections of Washington state law regarding school district elections, specifically focusing on the validation and ratification of school district indebtedness. The key change is the adjustment of the required voter approval threshold from a three-fifths majority to a 55 percent majority for validating and ratifying school district indebtedness, as reflected in the amendments to RCW 28A.535.020, RCW 28A.535.050, and RCW 39.36.020. Additionally, the bill specifies that propositions for school districts to issue general obligation bonds must also receive the affirmative vote of 55 percent of voters, as indicated in the amendments to RCW 84.52.056.

The bill also includes provisions for the resolution process that school boards must follow when calling for an election regarding debt financing measures, ensuring transparency about the purposes of the debt and any anticipated state financing assistance. Furthermore, it establishes a contingent effective date, which stipulates that the act will take effect only if a proposed constitutional amendment allowing for the 55 percent voter approval is approved by voters in the next general election. The bill also contains a severability clause to ensure that if any part of the act is found invalid, the remainder will still be enforceable.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 28A.535.020, 28A.535.050, 84.52.056, 39.36.020, 39.36.015