The bill addresses the funding challenges faced by Washington's school districts due to inflation, which has impacted their ability to purchase essential materials and cover operating costs. To enhance financial support for basic education, the legislation amends RCW 28A.150.260 and establishes a minimum allocation of $1,614.28 per full-time equivalent student for materials, supplies, and operating costs, with annual adjustments for inflation starting in the 2026-27 school year. Additionally, it introduces a minimum allocation of $214.84 for high school students in grades 9-12 and $100 per full-time equivalent student for districts receiving less than $100,000 in funding. The bill also mandates transparency by requiring school districts to report their expenditures in various categories.

Furthermore, the bill emphasizes the allocation of resources for educational programs targeting high poverty areas and students with diverse needs. It ensures that students in learning assistance programs receive adequate instructional time and outlines funding based on the percentage of students eligible for free or reduced-price meals. The legislation includes provisions for biennial reviews of the basic education funding distribution formula by the superintendent and governor, allowing the legislature to approve or reject recommendations. Overall, the bill aims to provide necessary resources for quality education while promoting accountability in the use of allocated funds.

Statutes affected:
Original bill: 28A.150.260