This bill introduces several amendments to existing laws regarding public education in Washington, focusing on transportation funding, high school and beyond plans, and running start programs. Notably, it mandates that the superintendent develop a reimbursement schedule for student transportation vehicles, specifying that beginning with buses scheduled for depreciation payments as of September 2025, the anticipated lifetime of these vehicles will be set at a minimum of 180 months. Additionally, the bill requires school districts to maintain transportation equipment properly and outlines penalties for non-compliance.

Furthermore, the bill emphasizes the need for a universal online platform for high school and beyond plans, which must be accessible to all students starting in the 2020-21 school year. The platform is designed to support students' career and college preparation and must include various features such as personalized plan creation, compliance with privacy requirements, and integration of academic data. The bill also sets new funding limits for running start programs, allowing students to be funded for up to 1.4 full-time equivalents in the 2025-26 school year and 1.2 in subsequent years. The act is declared an emergency measure, taking effect immediately to ensure the preservation of public peace, health, or safety.

Statutes affected:
Original bill: 28A.160.200, 28A.230.215, 28A.600.402