Bill > SB5136

This bill aims to establish guidelines for how public school employees and contractors address students, focusing on name and pronoun usage. Specifically, the bill requires that employees and contractors only use a student's name as listed on their birth certificate or its derivatives, and only use pronouns matching a student's biological sex, unless they obtain written permission from the student's parents or guardians. The legislation prohibits schools from compelling employees or contractors to use pronouns that conflict with their religious or moral convictions. The bill defines key terms such as "contractor" (anyone working for a school through a contract), "employee" (anyone working at a school), "parent" or "guardian" (legal caretakers), and "student" (individuals under 18 who are not emancipated). If an individual feels their rights have been violated, they can seek relief through the U.S. Department of Education's Office for Civil Rights or file a private legal action against the school district. The bill, known as the "Given Name Act," also includes a severability clause, meaning that if any part of the law is found invalid, the rest of the law remains in effect.

Education

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=5136&Year=2025&Initiative=false