Bill > HB1085

This bill aims to improve school safety by expanding and strengthening legal protections for school employees, students, and officials involved in school and extracurricular athletic activities. The bill increases penalties for individuals who interfere with or intimidate school-related personnel through force, violence, or threats. Specifically, the legislation increases the maximum fine for violations from $500 to $1,000 and extends potential jail time to 364 days. For non-student offenders, the bill introduces a mandatory exclusion from the school or athletic event where the offense occurred, ranging from 12 to 18 months. The legislature recognizes that school and extracurricular activities are critical spaces for learning, developing social skills, and building community spirit, and that violent or intimidating behavior undermines these important environments. The bill broadens the definition of protected individuals to include not just school staff and students, but also officials and volunteers involved in extracurricular athletic activities, acknowledging the crucial role these individuals play in supporting student development and community engagement. By increasing penalties and expanding protections, the bill seeks to create a more secure and respectful atmosphere for educational and athletic activities.

Budget and Finance, Housing and Urban Affairs

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=1085&Year=2025&Initiative=false