The bill aims to enhance support for survivors of sexual assault in public elementary and secondary schools in Washington State. It introduces new requirements for the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction to develop and update training materials focused on trauma-informed, survivor-centered responses to sexual abuse, misconduct, and assault by November 1, 2026. Additionally, it amends existing law (RCW 28A.400.317) to include sexual abuse and assault in the reporting obligations of school employees, ensuring that they receive training on these topics every three years. The training must promote trauma-informed responses and include bystander intervention strategies.

Furthermore, the bill establishes a new section in chapter 28A.640 RCW, mandating the development of a student and family guide to school district sexual harassment policies and related procedures by November 1, 2026. This guide must be culturally informed and translated into the most common non-English languages in the state. School districts are encouraged to distribute this guide to students and families, particularly those involved in the sexual harassment complaint process. The provisions of this act are set to take effect on August 1, 2027.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 28A.400.317
Substitute Bill: 28A.400.317