Major boost to special education funding gets Washington Senate approval

On Wednesday, the Washington Senate passed Senate Bill 5263 with a unanimous 48-0 vote, allocating an additional $2 billion for special education services in public schools over the next four years. Co-sponsored by Senate Majority Leader Jamie Pedersen and Senate Minority Leader John Braun, the bill highlights the state’s constitutional responsibility to fund special education as a critical component of basic education. Despite concerns regarding a looming $12 billion budget shortfall, both leaders stressed the importance of prioritizing children's education and meeting the needs of students with disabilities. State schools superintendent Chris Reykdal expressed that without significant investments, districts could face financial oversight and programming cuts, impacting students statewide. The bill aims to address the financial gap between state funding and the actual costs incurred by school districts for special education services.

Superintendents from various districts have voiced the need for increased state aid to alleviate reliance on local levy dollars for essential services. With the Senate's approval, the legislation now advances to the House for consideration. This funding boost represents a critical step towards ensuring equitable education for all students in Washington.