Washington 2025-2026 Regular Session

Washington House Bill HB1085

Introduced
1/13/25  
Refer
1/13/25  
Report Pass
2/11/25  
Refer
2/13/25  
Report Pass
2/26/25  

Caption

Improving school safety by extending penalties for interference by, or intimidation by threat of, force or violence at schools and extracurricular activities and requiring schools to notify the public of such penalties.

Impact

The impact of HB 1085 on state laws is notable as it seeks to reinforce existing provisions related to school safety. By legislating against interference or intimidation, the bill complements ongoing efforts to create safer classrooms and extracurricular settings. Moreover, it requires schools to notify the public regarding these penalties, which is significant for community transparency and awareness. As a result, the bill aims not only to deter violent and intimidating actions but also to foster a more secure environment for students and educators alike.

Summary

House Bill 1085 focuses on improving school safety by extending penalties for interference by, or intimidation through threats of force or violence in schools and during extracurricular activities. The bill specifically aims to address the growing concerns regarding safety within educational environments, providing a clearer legal framework for penalizing such actions effectively. By enhancing the consequences associated with these disruptive behaviors, the legislation targets instances that may endanger students, staff, and the overall educational experience.

Contention

While the bill's proponents argue that it is a necessary step in enhancing school safety, there may be concerns from specific advocacy groups regarding the implications of heightened penalties. Critics might argue that such measures could lead to a chilling effect on students or alternatively, increased criminalization of youthful behavior that is non-violent. Striking a balance between ensuring safety and maintaining an appropriate disciplinary approach will be crucial in the discourse surrounding HB 1085.

Companion Bills

WA SB5272

Crossfiled Improving school safety by extending penalties for interference by, or intimidation by threat of, force or violence at schools and extracurricular activities and requiring schools to notify the public of such penalties.

Previously Filed As

WA HB2079

Improving school safety by extending and increasing penalties for interference by, or intimidation by threat of, force or violence at schools and athletic activities.

WA HB2078

Improving school safety by extending and increasing penalties for interference by, or intimidation by threat of, force or violence at schools and school-related athletic activities.

WA HB1207

Preventing and responding to harassment, intimidation, bullying, and discrimination in schools.

WA HB2018

Improving student outcomes by restricting mobile device use by public school students.

WA HB1747

Concerning seismic safety in Washington public schools.

WA SB5680

Concerning seismic safety in Washington public schools.

WA HB2395

Improving public safety by deterring assaults involving strangulation or suffocation.

WA HB2002

Establishing criminal penalties for the public use of fentanyl or methamphetamine.

WA SB5593

Improving equity in the transfer of student data between K-12 schools and institutions of higher education.

WA HB1691

Expanding penalties for the crime of attempting to elude a pursuing police vehicle.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.