Bill > HB1538

This bill establishes a new grant program to provide capital financial assistance to small school districts (with 1,000 students or fewer) that are financially distressed and have aging school facilities. The program aims to help these districts modernize or replace school buildings that are at least 30 years old and in poor condition. Eligible projects must address critical physical deficiencies such as seismic vulnerabilities, failing building systems, infrastructure problems, accessibility barriers, and deteriorated conditions. To apply, school districts must submit detailed information about their facility conditions, including a seismic assessment and building inventory. The Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction will propose a prioritized list of grants every two years, with points awarded based on the district's remaining debt capacity, facility condition, and enrollment size. School districts must contribute a share of project costs, typically at least 50% of their remaining debt capacity, but this can be reduced if it would cause property tax rates to exceed $1.75 per $1,000 of assessed property value. The bill also allows districts to use federal funding, grants, or private donations to meet their cost share. The program is designed to help small, financially constrained districts improve their school facilities and potentially enhance student health, safety, and academic performance. The new grant program will take effect on January 1, 2028.

Budget and Finance

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=1538&Year=2025&Initiative=false