OLYMPIA—The House of Representatives passed a major piece of education policy written by Rep. Monica Stonier (D-Vancouver) after a marathon debate.
“This is about making sure all students have a safe and supportive learning environment so they can thrive,” said Stonier, the House Majority Floor Leader and a professional educator in her life outside the Legislature. “Students who face discrimination and harassment tend to have lower grades, lower self-esteem, and are at greater risk of harm.”
House Bill 1296 made improvements to Initiative 2081, which included confusing language that conflicted with aspects of state and federal law. That made it challenging for school administrators to implement the initiative, and has caused fear and confusion for educators, students, and parents alike.
Since the passage of that initiative, many students, families, and teachers shared their stories about the aftermath. Teachers in Grays Harbor, for example, were discouraged from connecting a non-binary student with mental health and social services, despite that student being kicked out of their home by their parents. The teachers provided support to their student regardless, risking their jobs.
This legislation clarifies and aligns language between the initiative and state laws. It also establishes anti-retaliation protections for school district employees and directors who support their students exercising their legal rights.
You can watch the debate here: https://tvw.org/video/house-floor-debate-march-12-2025031220/?eventID=2025031220
“Students shouldn’t face harassment or discrimination period – but especially in school,” Stonier said, “and our teachers shouldn’t be afraid of retaliation for using approved instructional materials that reach students of all kinds. Every kid should feel safe at school.”
The legislation passed 56-37. It’s now being considered in the Senate.