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Bill

HB 1011

Creating a school safety capital grant program.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Andrew Barkis and 5 co-sponsors

HB 1011 creates a state grant program funding school safety capital improvements like security upgrades and emergency infrastructure across Washington K-12 districts.

Public hearing in the House Committee on Capital Budget at 1:30 PM.
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Bill Summary · HB 1011

Legislative bill overview

HB 1011 establishes a capital grant program to fund school safety improvements across Washington state. The bill allocates state resources to help schools implement physical security upgrades, emergency preparedness infrastructure, and related safety measures. It represents a targeted investment in K-12 school facilities aimed at enhancing campus security.

Why is this important

School safety has become a significant concern for parents, educators, and policymakers following high-profile incidents nationwide. Capital grant programs directly affect which schools can afford comprehensive safety upgrades, potentially creating equity gaps between well-funded and under-resourced districts. The program's design will determine whether funding reaches the schools with the greatest needs or those most able to navigate the application process.

Potential points of contention

  • Funding allocation and equity: Whether grant distribution formulas adequately prioritize high-need districts or if competitive grants favor schools with existing resources and grant-writing capacity
  • Scope of "safety" improvements: Disagreement over whether funds should cover only physical security (locks, cameras, barriers) or include mental health services, threat assessment programs, and emergency response training
  • School-to-prison pipeline concerns: Debate over whether certain security measures (like surveillance systems) may disproportionately impact students of color or create an overly policed school environment
  • Cost-effectiveness and alternatives: Questions about whether capital investments in security infrastructure are the most effective use of education funding compared to prevention-focused approaches like counseling and threat assessment

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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