The bill establishes a framework to support public schools in Washington State in exploring and implementing later starting times. It mandates the office of the superintendent of public instruction to provide information and technical assistance to school districts, including charter schools and state-tribal education compact schools, on the potential health benefits of later start times and best practices from districts that have made the change. This assistance is contingent upon the availability of appropriated funds.
Additionally, the bill creates a later school starting times grant program, which will begin awarding grants to eligible school districts starting in the 2026-27 school year. These grants can be used for either exploring or implementing later start times, with districts that initially explore the option being eligible for further funding for implementation in future cycles. The office of the superintendent is also required to submit an annual report to the legislature starting in 2028, detailing the program's actions and providing insights from other states, along with recommendations for legislative support.