Bill would codify McKinney‑Vento protections in state law, require OSPI plan and coordinator for unhoused students

Substitute House Bill 2,594 would codify key provisions of the federal McKinney‑Vento Homeless Assistance Act into Washington state law, establish a state policy on equal access for homeless children and youths, direct the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction to submit a state plan to the Legislature, require OSPI to designate a state coordinator for education of homeless children and youth, and authorize competitive grants to school districts subject to appropriation.

Committee staff said the bill aligns state obligations with McKinney‑Vento as of January 1, 2026, and that an original fiscal note estimated no fiscal impact because OSPI and many districts already carry out the federal requirements. Supporters argued codification provides continuity and accountability if federal priorities change.

Christine Reeves, sponsor and 30th District representative, described the bill as a protective measure that will help ensure access to education and services for unhoused students statewide. Reeves said her district, Federal Way, has more than 1,600 students experiencing homelessness and told a personal story about experiencing homelessness as a teenager to explain the bill’s urgency.

Nonprofit and advocacy testimony included Aaron Yard of Building Changes, who said the measure improves coordination and transparency and urged passage at no cost, and Jonas Rios, who offered personal testimony about school‑age homelessness and how supports helped him continue his education.

Supporters told the committee codification would require OSPI to collect data, designate a coordinator, and provide assurances to the Legislature about policies and strategies to support student identification, enrollment, attendance and success. The committee did not take a final vote at the public hearing.