OLYMPIA — The Washington State Senate passed a bill Wednesday to improve access to technology for public school students, particularly those from low-income families.
Senate Bill 6222, sponsored by Sen. Victoria Hunt (D-Issaquah), would give school districts and educational service districts (ESDs) new tools to put technology directly in the hands of students.
Under SB 6222, school districts and ESDs would be authorized to:
- Provide surplus technology hardware such as computers and tablets at no cost to students from low-income families.
- Sell surplus technology hardware, including laptops, tablets, and other electronic devices, to public school students at depreciated cost.
- Prioritize students from low-income families for access to surplus technology hardware.
“Technology is no longer a luxury. It is essential for students to complete homework, apply for jobs, conduct research, and explore career opportunities,” Hunt said. “This bill ensures that students who need these tools the most are not left behind, giving them the resources to succeed both in school and beyond.”
Many school districts currently struggle with surplus devices that go unused or are auctioned off, while students who relied on their school laptops leave for college or careers without the tools needed to be successful. SB 6222 addresses this by creating a clear process for transferring technology, helping reduce opportunity gaps and expand educational equity.
The bill defines low-income families as those qualifying for free or reduced-price meals or with an income at or below 185% of the federal poverty level. Qualifying public school students include recent graduates and those enrolled in a public school within the past 12 months.
SB 6222 received bipartisan support in the Senate and passed unanimously. The bill now moves to the House for consideration.
