In this week's episode of Rainy Day Recess, we track the latest developments in the fight for education funding in Washington state—and it's been a rough week.
Two transportation funding bills have officially died, leaving advocates scrambling for a budget proviso to secure critical funding for students with high transportation needs.
Special education funding also took a major hit, as the House unexpectedly removed a strong special ed bill (HB 1310) from consideration, replacing it with a much weaker alternative (HB 1357). While some provisions from HB 1310 were added to HB 1357, funding levels were dramatically reduced. Meanwhile, the Senate’s special education bill (SB 5263) still includes key provisions, like removal of the cap and inclusionary practices funding, and is now a top priority for advocacy.
MSOC (Materials, Supplies, and Operating Costs) funding also suffered a devastating blow. A House amendment gutted the proposed funding increase (HB 1338), reducing it from 20% to a meager 0.3%, prompting frustration from advocates and lawmakers alike. The Senate MSOC bill (SB 5192) remains in play with a 6% increase—far from ideal but significantly better than the House version.
We discuss how legislative leadership controls the next steps for the Big 3 bills – getting through Rules committee and making it to a vote on the Floor. The House of Origin cutoff looms on Wednesday, March 12.
See our Show Notes.
Contact us at hello@rainydayrecess.org.
Rainy Day Recess music by Lester Mayo, logo by Cheryl Jenrow.
