The bill aims to enhance the safety, rights, and educational access of students in Washington's public education system by establishing new policies and procedures for school districts. It introduces a new section to chapter 28A.320 RCW that mandates school districts to prioritize student safety, access to education, and privacy, while requiring the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction to provide technical assistance for implementation. The bill also expands the definitions of discrimination in RCW 28A.642.010 to include factors such as ethnicity, gender identity, homelessness, and neurodivergence, thereby broadening protections against discrimination in schools. Additionally, it establishes a "Statement of Student Rights" and a complaint process for reporting noncompliance with state laws related to student rights, ensuring accountability among school district officials.

Furthermore, the bill introduces new sections regulating charter schools and state-tribal education compact schools, ensuring equal application of regulations. It enhances protections for school district employees against retaliation for supporting students' rights and outlines parental rights regarding their children's education. The bill also mandates immediate notification to parents if a student is reported as a victim of abuse or misconduct by school employees and emphasizes training for staff on reporting obligations. Overall, the legislation seeks to improve accountability, transparency, and student protections within the education system, taking effect immediately for the preservation of public peace, health, or safety.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 28A.642.080, 28A.642.020, 28A.605.005
Substitute Bill: 28A.642.080, 28A.642.020, 28A.605.005
Engrossed Substitute: 28A.642.080, 28A.642.020, 28A.320.235, 28A.400.317, 28A.605.005, 28A.320.160
Bill as Passed Legislature: 28A.642.010, 28A.230.094, 43.06B.070, 28A.300.286, 28A.343.360, 28A.710.185, 28A.605.005, 28A.320.160, 28A.400.317
Session Law: 28A.642.010, 28A.230.094, 43.06B.070, 28A.300.286, 28A.343.360, 28A.710.185, 28A.605.005, 28A.320.160, 28A.400.317