Bill > SB5386

This bill supports survivors of sexual assault in public schools by establishing several key provisions. The Legislative Youth Advisory Council will lead collaborative discussions about mandatory reporting of child abuse, reviewing existing school employee training, reporting systems, and policies related to sexual abuse. The council will include representatives from various state agencies and local experts, and by December 1, 2025, will submit recommendations for improving laws and practices to be more trauma-informed and survivor-centered. The Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI) is required to develop and post staff training materials by November 1, 2026, focusing on trauma-informed responses to sexual abuse disclosures, and must incorporate the youth advisory council's recommendations. The bill also amends existing law to expand reporting requirements for school employees, mandating that they report sexual abuse, misconduct, or assault by another school employee to school administrators. Additionally, OSPI will develop a student and family guide about sexual harassment policies and reporting procedures, which must be culturally informed and translated into the most common non-English languages spoken in the state. The goal is to create a more supportive and responsive system for students who experience sexual abuse or misconduct in schools.

Education

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=5386&Year=2025&Initiative=false