WA HB1257

Extends special education eligibility from age 21 to the end of the school year in which the student turns 22, responding to a November 2024 federal court ruling (N.D. v. Reykdal) that found Washington's previous policy violated the federal Individuals with Disabilities Education Act

Requires the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction, Department of Social and Health Services, Department of Services for the Blind, and other relevant agencies to update their transition planning implementation plan by October 30, 2026

Ensures students receiving special education services can participate in graduation ceremonies after four years of high school and receive a certificate of attendance without forfeiting continued eligibility for special education services

Amends interagency agreements to provide coordinated transition services for students ages 16-22, including examples of seamless school-to-postschool transitions and provisions ensuring services supplement rather than supplant state funding

Updates eligibility requirements at state schools for the blind and deaf to align with the new age 22 cutoff, and requires school districts to report visually or hearing impaired youth ages 3-22 to educational service districts