The bill amends RCW 28A.150.390 to increase the special education enrollment funding cap by adjusting the excess cost allocation for school districts. Specifically, the bill raises the enrollment percentage threshold from 15 percent to 16 percent, which affects the calculation of funding for districts with a higher percentage of students receiving special education services. The new funding multipliers for the 2023-24 school year are also established, with different rates for students based on their time spent in general education settings.

Additionally, the bill creates a new section requiring the state auditor, in collaboration with the office of the superintendent of public instruction, to review the prevalence of disabilities and the adequacy of provisions and funding for evaluating students and providing services. This review aims to identify any disparities in evaluation and service provision among different populations. The auditor is tasked with reporting findings and recommendations to the governor and relevant legislative committees by November 30, 2025, with the section set to expire on March 30, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 28A.150.390
Substitute Bill: 28A.150.390
Bill as Passed Legislature: 28A.150.390
Session Law: 28A.150.390