This bill addresses the rising temperatures in school facilities due to climate change and mandates the development of indoor temperature standards for public schools in Washington State. It requires the superintendent of public instruction to appoint an advisory committee by September 1, 2025, to create recommendations for these standards, including a maximum temperature. The committee will consist of representatives from various entities, including the Department of Health and the Washington Education Association, and must consider the balance between temperature control and state energy performance standards. The advisory committee is tasked with reporting its recommendations and a draft legislation to the governor and legislature by January 1, 2026, along with cost estimates for implementation by July 1, 2026.

Additionally, the bill amends existing law to include "excessive heat" as a condition under which school districts may receive state basic education funding if they cannot fulfill the requirement of a full school year due to unsafe or unhealthy conditions. The definition of "excessive heat" will be determined by the superintendent of public instruction based on guidance from the National Weather Service. The bill aims to ensure that school facilities are safe and conducive to learning, particularly in the face of increasing temperatures linked to climate change.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 28A.150.290