This bill seeks to align Washington state law with federal requirements under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) by extending special education services for students with disabilities until the end of the school year in which they turn 22 years old. This change comes in response to a recent court ruling that deemed the previous policy of terminating services at age 21 as non-compliant with federal law. The legislation ensures that students continue to receive a free appropriate public education, thereby maximizing their educational gains and providing essential transitional supports.

In addition to extending educational services, the bill mandates collaboration among state agencies to enhance transition planning for students likely to qualify for services from the developmental disabilities administration. It emphasizes coordinated transition services for students aged 16 to 22 and requires consultation with nonprofit providers and advocates. The bill also amends several sections of the Revised Code of Washington (RCW), including changes to the definition of eligible students and the establishment of interagency agreements to streamline transition services. Key modifications include replacing age limits from "twenty-one" to "22" and ensuring that school districts maintain open admissions for students with disabilities, thereby enhancing educational access and support for a broader range of students.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 28A.155.020, 28A.155.070, 28A.155.170, 28A.230.120, 28A.190.030, 28A.225.160, 28A.705.010, 28A.225.240, 72.40.040, 72.40.060
Substitute Bill: 28A.155.020, 28A.155.070, 28A.155.170, 28A.230.120, 28A.190.030, 28A.225.160, 28A.705.010, 28A.225.240, 72.40.040, 72.40.060
Bill as Passed Legislature: 28A.155.020, 28A.155.070, 28A.155.170, 28A.230.120, 28A.190.030, 28A.225.160, 28A.705.010, 28A.225.240, 72.40.040, 72.40.060
Session Law: 28A.155.020, 28A.155.070, 28A.155.170, 28A.230.120, 28A.190.030, 28A.225.160, 28A.705.010, 28A.225.240, 72.40.040, 72.40.060