Bill > SB5961

This bill transfers the responsibility for early literacy programs, specifically the "Imagination Library of Washington" program which mails age-appropriate books to children from birth to age five, from the Department of Children, Youth, and Families to the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction. The Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction will now be responsible for selecting a Washington-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization to operate the program, which includes managing daily operations, establishing and strengthening affiliate programs across the state, conducting public awareness campaigns, and contracting with a national nonprofit foundation to supply the books. The bill also updates reporting requirements for the nonprofit organization and clarifies that while the state is not required to provide funding for the program, the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction can accept gifts and grants for its support. Additionally, the bill recodifies an existing law related to this program and adds a new section requiring the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction to contract with a nonprofit experienced in promoting early literacy through pediatric office visits.

Budget and Finance, Education

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=5961&Year=2025&Initiative=false