The bill aims to enhance public school instruction regarding blood donation awareness, recognizing its importance in ensuring a reliable and diverse blood supply. It introduces a new section that emphasizes the need for education on blood donation alongside existing health education requirements. The bill encourages school districts, charter schools, and state-tribal education compact schools serving grades nine through twelve to incorporate instruction on both bone marrow and blood donation, starting from the 2025-26 school year. This instruction is intended to empower students with knowledge about the life-saving impact of blood donation, eligibility requirements, and opportunities for participation in donation programs.

Additionally, the bill amends RCW 28A.210.430 to include blood donation awareness in the existing framework for bone marrow donation education. It specifies that the instructional program must be provided by recognized organizations such as the American Red Cross and Bloodworks Northwest. The bill also allows schools serving grades kindergarten through eight to offer age-appropriate instruction on blood donation. Furthermore, it permits schools to deliver this instruction directly or through community-based providers, without the necessity of certificated instructional staff.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 28A.210.430
Bill as Passed Legislature: 28A.210.430
Session Law: 28A.210.430