Washington State Public Education Legislative Update – June 2026
The 2026 Washington State Legislative Session (a 60-day short session) adjourned sine die on March 12, 2026. Lawmakers focused on supplemental operating and capital budgets amid revenue challenges, passing adjustments to the 2025-27 biennial budget. Many new education-related laws took effect on June 11, 2026.
Key Outcomes from the Session
Supplemental Budget: The final agreement included targeted reductions to K-12 and early learning programs, such as cuts to Transition to Kindergarten (TTK), Running Start enrollment caps, and adjustments to Local Effort Assistance. OSPI funding saw modest reductions, and overall education funding faces ongoing pressures from rising costs. Some investments in behavioral health and literacy supports were preserved or advanced.
Districts are now in the implementation phase, with new requirements taking effect for the 2026-27 school year. OSPI has published a 2026 Session Summary and district impact lists detailing changes to funding, programs, and operations.
Notable Education Bills Passed
- HB 1795 (Restraint and Isolation): Prohibits life-threatening restraint practices, mechanical/chemical restraints, and routine isolation in schools. Limits use to specific emergency situations with strict parental consent and medical documentation requirements for certain cases.
- HB 1295 (Literacy Curriculum): Sets requirements for new or updated reading/writing curriculum in grades K-4, updates teacher endorsement standards, and directs OSPI to develop training programs.
- HB 1634 (Behavioral Health Supports): Directs OSPI and Educational Service Districts to provide technical assistance and training frameworks for student behavioral health.
Other measures addressed AI content labeling, school safety, and program adjustments (e.g., bus depreciation, alternative learning enrollment limits).
Looking Ahead
Prefiling for the 2027 legislative session begins December 7, 2026.
A Parental Rights Initiative (covering review of education materials, notifications, and opt-outs for sexual health education) is on the November 2026 general election ballot.
Advocacy organizations like the League of Education Voters, Washington Education Association, WASA, and WSPTA continue monitoring implementation, budget impacts, and preparation for 2027 priorities such as full basic education funding (e.g., MSOC, special education, transportation).
For More Details
This update reflects the post-session landscape as of mid-June 2026. School districts and families should consult OSPI and local administrators for specific impacts. For questions or customized content, contact your legislators or education advocacy groups.