HB 1853 Washington House · 2025-2026 Regular Session

Designating school district recreational properties as green community schoolyards and developing a model shared-use agreement to increase the use of existing playgrounds and playfields.

HB 1853 requires Washington school districts to designate all public outdoor recreational spaces (like playgrounds and fields) as "green community schoolyards" available for community use outside school hours. It mandates the state superintendent to create a model shared-use agreement policy covering scheduling, costs, liability, equity, and fee structures to facilitate community access. School districts adopting this model policy become eligible for adjusted state funding under the school construction program. The bill directly affects school districts, community groups, and residents - especially those in underserved areas - by expanding access to outdoor recreation spaces without new land acquisition. It aims to improve physical activity access, community cohesion, and climate resilience through existing school properties.
Bill status in committee 1 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Jan 2026
Committee Review
Floor Vote
Governor
Introduced Jan 12, 2026 Last action Jan 12, 2026
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Full legislative history

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Total actions
2
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Committee
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Jan 12, 2026
Introduced
By resolution, reintroduced and retained in present status.
lower
1 primary · 13 co-sponsors

Sponsors