The bill aims to enhance public school instruction regarding blood donation awareness, recognizing its importance in ensuring a reliable 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 blood and bone marrow 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 criteria, and ways to participate 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 should be provided by recognized organizations such as the American Red Cross and Bloodworks Northwest. The bill also allows for the adaptation of this instruction for younger students in grades kindergarten through eight and permits schools to utilize community-based providers for delivering the instruction, which does not necessarily have to be conducted by certified instructional staff.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 28A.210.430