District 48 – March 23, 2:30–3:30 pm | Together Center, Redmond
👥 Featuring Sen. Vandana Slatter, Rep. Amy Walen and Rep. Osman Salahuddin

Bills we are watching:
📌 Special Education Funding – Senate Bill 5263
On March 12, 2025, the Washington State Senate unanimously passed SB 5263 (48-0), a landmark bipartisan bill that ensures special education is fully recognized as a core component of basic education.
✅ Eliminating the Enrollment Cap: No more arbitrary 16% funding limit; districts will receive funding based on actual special education enrollment.
✅ Increasing the Funding Multiplier: More resources allocated to special education students, ensuring they receive the support they need.
✅ Enhancing the Safety Net: A more efficient process for districts to secure additional special education funds through OSPI.
💰 Projected Funding Impact:
$915 million in the upcoming two-year budget
$1.1 billion estimated for 2027–2029
SB 5263 now heads to the House for approval—a critical next step in ensuring sustained support for special education programs.
📌 Increased Support for School Operations – Senate Bill 5192
On March 5, 2025, the Senate passed SB 5192 (47-2), a bill aimed at bolstering funding for school operations by increasing allocations for Materials, Supplies and Operating Costs (MSOC).
💰 Funding Allocation:
$200 million added to the next budget to support essential school operations
Helps districts manage rising costs without cutting programs or increasing financial strain on families
These legislative advancements underscore Washington’s commitment to fully funding basic education and ensuring that every student, including those in special education, has access to the resources they need to thrive.