The bill seeks to improve the operational independence of several education agencies in Washington, including the state board of education, the Washington professional educator standards board, the Washington state charter school commission, and the financial education public-private partnership. It removes the requirement for these agencies to operate under the office of the superintendent of public instruction, allowing them to secure administrative services tailored to their specific needs. The transition is set to be coordinated by the office of financial management through July 2026, with the agencies expected to establish their own policies and procedures for independent operation by July 1, 2027. Key amendments include the establishment of the state board of education and the Washington professional educator standards board as independent state agencies, along with the transfer of relevant documents, assets, and personnel from the superintendent's office.

Furthermore, the bill introduces new governance provisions for the Washington Professional Educator Standards Board, the Financial Education Public-Private Partnership, and the Washington State Charter School Commission. It requires the governor to consider the state's population diversity when making board appointments and delegates authority to the executive director of each entity for hiring and contract management. The bill also outlines the composition and appointment process for the Financial Education Public-Private Partnership and the Charter School Commission, emphasizing diversity among members and establishing staggered terms. It includes provisions for the continuity of existing contracts and obligations, with a timeline for implementation that takes effect on July 1, 2027, unless specific funding is not provided by June 30, 2026, which would render the act null and void.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 28A.305.130, 28A.300.020, 28A.410.200, 28A.300.450, 28A.710.070
Substitute Bill: 28A.305.130, 28A.300.020, 28A.410.200, 28A.300.450, 28A.710.070
Second Substitute: 28A.305.130, 28A.300.020, 28A.410.200, 28A.300.450, 28A.710.070