The bill aims to reduce the financial strain of rising utility costs on school districts and public education entities in Washington State by mandating gas, electric, and water utilities to provide progressively increasing discounts on utility rates. Starting with a 10% discount by January 1, 2027, the discounts will escalate to 60% by January 1, 2032. The legislation underscores the state's constitutional obligation to ensure adequate educational resources and seeks to prevent utility costs from undermining essential educational services. Additionally, it extends these discount provisions to charter schools and state-tribal education compact schools, ensuring equitable benefits across various educational institutions.

Moreover, the bill introduces new requirements for consumer-owned and investor-owned utilities, necessitating that their governing boards approve the discounted rates, with costs being recouped from other customers. It also amends existing laws related to the construction and financing of local facilities, stipulating that if permanent facilities are not built within 15 years, the collected funds must be returned to property owners. The bill further includes provisions for rate reductions for storm or surface water sewer systems for new or remodeled commercial buildings utilizing rainwater harvesting, and it emphasizes the importance of notifying residents about on-site inspection and maintenance services prior to public hearings.

Statutes affected:
Original bill: 57.08.005, 35.92.020