Washington 2025-2026 Regular Session

Washington Senate Bill SB5190

Introduced
1/13/25  
Refer
1/13/25  
Report Pass
1/23/25  

Caption

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

Impact

The introduction of SB5190 could significantly alter the way energy performance standards are implemented in K-12 schools across the state. By enabling school districts to seek extensions, the bill may result in a more tailored approach to energy compliance, allowing districts to better address their unique situations without compromising their educational missions. This could lead to improved energy efficiency in the long run, as districts would have the necessary time to develop adequate plans and secure funding for compliance.

Summary

SB5190 proposes to amend current state legislation to allow school districts to request extensions for the deadlines related to energy performance standards applicable to K-12 school buildings. The bill aims to provide more flexibility to school districts that may face challenges in meeting these energy standards due to various factors, including funding limitations, resource availability, and administrative hurdles. By allowing extensions, the bill supports the idea that specific local circumstances should be considered in the enforcement of state standards.

Contention

However, the bill is not without contention. Supporters argue that the flexibility offered by SB5190 is essential for schools already stretched thin by budget constraints. They emphasize that this bill can prevent schools from incurring unnecessary financial burdens when they are unable to meet stringent timelines due to factors beyond their control. Conversely, critics may view the bill as a potential loophole that could allow districts to delay necessary upgrades to energy efficiency, thereby failing to meet the overarching goals of state energy policy.

Notable_points

The discussions surrounding SB5190 emphasize the balance between enforcing energy standards and recognizing the operational challenges that school districts face. Stakeholders may focus on how the bill reflects broader themes of educational funding and district autonomy, particularly in light of past legislation that has impacted school infrastructure and funding for energy improvements.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

WA SB5345

Exempting certain public school buildings from the state energy performance standard.

WA SB5057

Creating a work group to evaluate the costs of the state energy performance standard for covered commercial buildings.

WA SB5804

Revised for 1st Substitute: Concerning opioid overdose reversal medication in public schools.Original: Concerning opioid overdose reversal medication in high schools.

WA SB5491

Revised for Passed Legislature: Concerning a technical advisory group to study single stairway residential buildings.Revised for 1st Substitute: Allowing for residential buildings of a certain height to be served by a single exit under certain conditions.Original: Allowing for residential buildings of a certain height to be served by a single exit under certain conditions.

WA HB1328

Increasing funding to schools and families for students not meeting academic standards.

WA SB5617

Revised for 1st Substitute: Concerning career and technical education course equivalencies.Original: Facilitating course equivalency agreements between skill centers and school districts.

WA SB6016

Revised for 1st Substitute: Supporting school districts and nonprofit organizations that service the communities where renewable energy projects are located.Original: Creating a green energy community fund to support school districts and nonprofit organizations that service the communities where renewable energy projects are located.

WA SB5462

Promoting inclusive learning standards and instructional materials in public schools.

WA HB1376

Aligning policies to reflect the updated standards of practice for school district staff.

WA SB5790

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

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.