H-0873.1
HOUSE BILL 1663
State of Washington
69th Legislature
2025 Regular Session
By Representatives Rule, Eslick, Simmons, Nance, and Shavers
Read first time 01/28/25. Referred to Committee on Education.
AN ACT Relating to enhancing youth mental health and well-being through advanced training and expansion of the workforce in schools; amending RCW 28A.410.044 , 28A.320.280 , and 28A.310.235 ; reenacting and amending RCW 28A.150.260 ; adding a new section to chapter 28A.310 RCW; and creating a new section.
BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON:
NEW SECTION. Sec. 1. The legislature finds that Washington youth require additional support in order to thrive. Washington has the ninth highest school refusal rate in the country, with 30 percent of K-12 students missing more than 10 percent of the school year. A significant number of Washington's youth experience high rates of emotional, developmental, or behavioral distress, or thoughts of suicide.
The legislature further finds that school social workers are uniquely positioned to contribute to K-12 student safety, address student behavioral health care needs, and support students with individualized education programs. School social workers collaborate with school personnel, families, and community organizations to reduce absenteeism, support student mental health, and create inclusive learning environments that prepare students for success in a diverse society.