This bill amends several sections of Washington state law regarding school district elections and the validation of indebtedness. Notably, it changes the voting requirement for approving school district indebtedness from a three-fifths majority to a simple majority of voters. This adjustment is reflected in amendments to RCW 28A.535.020, RCW 28A.535.050, and RCW 39.36.020, which now stipulate that a majority of voters is sufficient for the validation and ratification of school district debts. Additionally, the bill modifies the language in RCW 84.52.056 to clarify that a school district's bond issuance can also be approved by a simple majority.

The bill also includes provisions for the tabulation of votes in special elections related to the formation of new school districts and adjustments of bonded indebtedness, ensuring that a majority of votes cast in each component district is required for approval. Furthermore, it establishes a contingent effective date, stating that the act will take effect only if a proposed constitutional amendment allowing for a simple majority vote on school district bonds 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, 28A.315.285