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 goal is to empower students with knowledge about the life-saving impact of blood donation, eligibility criteria, and ways to participate in donation programs, thereby fostering civic engagement and community health initiatives.

Amendments to RCW 28A.210.430 include the addition of blood donation awareness to the existing instruction on bone marrow donation for students in grades nine through twelve, starting in the 2025-26 school year. The bill specifies that the instructional program must be provided by recognized organizations such as the American Red Cross and Bloodworks Northwest. Additionally, it allows for the adaptation of this instruction for younger students in grades kindergarten through eight and permits schools to offer the instruction directly or through community-based providers, without the requirement for certificated instructional staff.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 28A.210.430