OLYMPIA — A bill to address critical funding gaps in Washington’s K-12 schools was signed into law Saturday.
Senate Bill 5192, sponsored by Sen. T’wina Nobles (D-Fircrest), increases state funding for materials, supplies, and operating costs (MSOC) in public schools and ensures those amounts are adjusted annually for inflation using a specific model. The proposal ensures state funding reflects the actual costs districts face to maintain facilities, provide curriculum, and meet other essential operational needs.
“This bill is about ensuring our schools can keep the lights on, keep classrooms stocked, and keep up with rising costs,” Nobles said. “Districts across the state are being stretched thin, and this is one way we can help ensure they have the tools to meet students’ needs.”
The bill simplifies MSOC funding by removing category-specific allocations and giving districts greater flexibility to direct resources where they are most needed. To ensure transparency, beginning in the 2026-27 school year, districts must report MSOC expenditures in key categories such as technology, curriculum, utilities, and maintenance. The Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction may add additional categories as needed for state and federal reporting requirements.
The law goes into effect July 27.
