Bill > HB2234

This bill addresses increased school utility costs related to the Washington Climate Commitment Act by creating a new allocation mechanism for school districts. Specifically, beginning in the 2026-27 school year, the bill will provide an additional $95 per full-time equivalent student to school districts to offset utility cost increases caused by the Climate Commitment Act and related environmental regulations. This supplemental funding will come directly from the climate commitment account and is specifically earmarked to help schools manage higher utility expenses resulting from new environmental policies. The bill requires that these additional funds can only be used for utility-related costs and mandates that school districts report their expenditures in detailed categories, including a specific line item for utilities. The legislation amends existing state laws regarding school funding and is intended to provide financial relief to school districts facing increased operational costs due to environmental regulatory requirements. The additional funding will be adjusted annually for inflation and is designed to ensure that schools are not disproportionately burdened by the increased costs associated with climate-related regulations.

Budget and Finance

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=2234&Year=2025&Initiative=false