Bill > SB5307

This bill addresses special education funding in Washington state by making several key changes to improve financial support and services for students with disabilities. The legislation recognizes that students receiving special education services are entitled to a free appropriate public education and that previous funding models have often left school districts with significant financial burdens. The bill eliminates the enrollment cap on special education funding, increases the funding multipliers for students in different educational settings (with higher rates for more inclusive environments), and lowers the threshold for accessing safety net funds. Specifically, it raises the special education cost multiplier from previous rates to 1.5289 for students in general education settings 80% or more of the day, and 1.447 for students in general education settings less than 80% of the day. The bill also requires the Superintendent of Public Instruction to engage in statewide activities to support special education, including reviewing data for disproportionality, providing technical assistance to districts, and offering professional development in inclusive teaching practices. Additionally, the legislation mandates annual reporting to the legislature on these efforts and the impact of removing the enrollment percentage cap. The changes aim to provide more equitable and comprehensive funding for special education services, with a focus on supporting student inclusion and reducing barriers to educational support.

Education

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=5307&Year=2025&Initiative=false