In week 7 of our Big 3 Briefing series, we provide updates on the legislative process for the Big 3 education funding priorities: special education, pupil transportation, and materials, supplies, and operating costs (MSOC).

All of the Big 3 bills survived the policy cutoff, and some of them look on track to make it through the fiscal cutoff this Friday - the MSOC and special education bills are all scheduled for executive sessions on Thursday, February 27. However, transportation funding increases are at risk, as key bills have not yet been scheduled as of yet.

We break down how fiscal committees work, including how legislators may attempt to dial down funding levels or make other changes through the amendment and substitution process in the executive session. 

We highlight concerns about special education funding, particularly the risk of reduced excess cost multipliers and the possible removal of funding for OSPI’s inclusionary work.

With a February 28 deadline approaching for fiscal committees, we encourage listeners to contact legislators—especially those on the Senate Ways & Means or House Appropriations Committees—to protect critical funding. 

Looking ahead, we preview the next hurdles: Rules Committee screenings and floor debates, leading up to the March 12 cutoff for bills to pass their house of origin.

See our Show Notes

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Rainy Day Recess music by Lester Mayo, logo by Cheryl Jenrow.