The bill amends RCW 28A.530.080 to expand the authority of school districts in Washington State to contract indebtedness for school construction and related purposes. Specifically, it allows school districts to issue bonds, notes, or other forms of indebtedness without a vote from the qualified electors for various purposes, including purchasing real or personal property. The bill introduces new requirements for school districts wishing to exercise this authority for specific purposes, including obtaining prior approval from voters to collect a levy for construction and ensuring they have not been under binding conditions in the two years preceding the contract.

Additionally, the bill modifies the existing public notice and hearing requirements for issuing nonvoted bonds. It raises the threshold for when a public hearing is required from $250,000, ensuring that school districts must publish a notice of intent and hold a public hearing before issuing bonds above this amount. However, the bill clarifies that these public notice and hearing requirements do not apply to refinancing or refunding existing bonds. Overall, the amendments aim to streamline the process for school districts to secure funding for construction projects while maintaining some level of public oversight.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 28A.530.080
Substitute Bill: 28A.530.080