Washington 2023-2024 Regular Session

Washington Senate Bill SB5891

Introduced
1/8/24  
Refer
1/8/24  
Report Pass
1/25/24  
Engrossed
2/9/24  
Refer
2/13/24  
Report Pass
2/20/24  
Refer
2/21/24  
Enrolled
3/8/24  
Chaptered
3/26/24  

Caption

Revised for Engrossed: Protecting the safety and security of students and maintaining order within school buses by designating trespassing on a school bus as a criminal offense.Revised for 1st Substitute: Designating trespassing on a school bus as a felony offense.Original: Designating trespassing on a public school bus as a felony offense.

Impact

The implementation of SB5891 would revise existing laws regarding student safety on school buses, transforming the act of trespassing onto a bus into a felony offense. This increased severity in legal repercussions aims to deter individuals from engaging in such activities, thereby promoting a safer environment for students. By enhancing legal protections surrounding school transport, the bill underscores the priority placed on child safety within the educational system.

Summary

SB5891 is a legislative measure designed to enhance the safety and security of students by addressing the issue of unauthorized access to school buses. The bill specifically designates trespassing on a school bus as a criminal offense, reinforcing the legal protections around school transport and ensuring a secure environment for students traveling to and from school. This measure reflects a commitment to safeguarding student welfare in the face of potential threats associated with unauthorized individuals accessing school buses.

Sentiment

Overall, the sentiment around SB5891 appears to be supportive among lawmakers, particularly in the context of prioritizing student safety. Legislators expressed a strong endorsement of measures that protect children from harm, recognizing the need for stricter regulations regarding access to school buses. While the discussion did not highlight significant opposition, the general tone promoted the bill as a necessary step towards reinforcing student safety.

Contention

While there seems to be a consensus supporting SB5891, potential points of contention could arise regarding the implications of criminalizing trespassing in educational contexts. Some critics may argue about the adequacy of existing measures and whether categorizing trespassing on school buses as a felony might have disproportionate consequences for individuals committing minor infractions. Nonetheless, the primary focus remains on ensuring a safe and secure environment for students on school transport.

Companion Bills

WA HB2133

Crossfiled Designating trespassing on a public school bus as a felony offense.

Previously Filed As

WA HB2133

Designating trespassing on a public school bus as a felony offense.

WA SB1221

Schools: trespassing.

WA SB5515

Revised for Engrossed: Protecting children from child abuse and neglect at residential facilities and residential private schools.Revised for 1st Substitute: Protecting children from child abuse and neglect.Original: Protecting children from child abuse and neglect.

WA HB2567

Relating to felony trespassing

WA HB4460

Relating to felony trespassing

WA H0933

Trespassing

WA SB5790

Revised for Engrossed: Concerning medical equipment in schools.Original: Concerning bleeding control equipment in schools.

WA SB5190

Revised for 1st Substitute: Allowing schools and school districts to request extensions to state energy performance standard deadlines for K-12 school buildings.

WA SB5344

Revised for Engrossed: Establishing a school modernization loan program.Original: Establishing a public school revolving fund.

WA HB1368

Requiring and funding the purchase of zero emission school buses.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.