This bill aims to enhance support for survivors of sexual assault in public elementary and secondary schools in Washington State. It establishes a collaborative discussion led by the legislative youth advisory council to review and improve mandatory reporting requirements for child abuse and neglect. The council will engage with various agencies and organizations, gather student feedback, and provide recommendations for amending laws to adopt trauma-informed and survivor-centered best practices by December 1, 2025. Additionally, the bill mandates the office of the superintendent of public instruction to develop and update staff training materials on trauma-informed responses to sexual abuse and misconduct by November 1, 2026.

Key amendments to existing law include the expansion of reporting obligations for school employees to include sexual abuse and assault, alongside physical abuse and misconduct. The bill also requires that training for school employees promote trauma-informed and survivor-centered responses, including bystander intervention training. Furthermore, a new student and family guide will be developed to inform about school district policies on sexual harassment and mandatory reporting, ensuring it is culturally informed and accessible in multiple languages. The provisions of this act are set to take effect on August 1, 2027.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 28A.400.317