WA SB5307

Eliminates the 16% cap on special education enrollment that previously limited state funding, allowing all students receiving special education services to generate state funding regardless of district enrollment percentages

Increases special education funding multipliers: from 1.2 to 1.6381 for preschool students (ages 3-5 not yet in kindergarten), from 1.12 to 1.5289 for K-12 students in general education settings 80%+ of the day, and from 1.06 to 1.447 for students in general education settings less than 80% of the day

Lowers the safety net eligibility threshold from 2.0-2.3 times the average per-pupil expenditure to 1.5 times, making it easier for districts to access additional state funding for high-cost students

Requires the superintendent of public instruction to engage in statewide activities including annual review of disproportionate identification of special education students, technical assistance to districts, and professional development in inclusionary practices

Takes effect September 1, 2025 and requires annual reports to the legislature on statewide special education activities and the impact of removing the enrollment cap