FINAL BILL REPORT
SB 6245
This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent. |
C 219 L 16
Synopsis as Enacted
Brief Description: Concerning visual screening in schools.
Sponsors: Senators Litzow, Hill, Fain, Rolfes, McAuliffe and Mullet.
Senate Committee on Early Learning & K-12 Education
House Committee on Education
House Committee on Appropriations
Background: Current law requires every board of school directors to provide for and require screening for the visual and auditory acuity of all children attending schools in their districts. Visual screening and auditory Auditory and visual screening must be made in accordance with procedures and standards adopted by the Washington State Board of Health (BOH). BOH must seek the recommendations of the Superintendent of Public Instruction regarding the administration of visual and auditory screening and the qualifications of persons competent to administer such screening.
Under BOH rules, schools must conduct visual and auditory screening of children in kindergarten and grades one, two, three, five, and seven as well as any child showing symptoms of possible loss in visual and auditory acuity referred to the district by parents, guardians, or school staff. If resources permit, schools must annually screen children at other grade levels.
BOH rules require students to be screened for distance central vision acuity using a Snellen test chart. The rules do not require near vision screening.
A Health Impact Review of companion House Bill 1865 was requested and is available at the BOH's website: .
Summary: Every board of school directors must provide for and require visual screening that includes both distance and near vision screening.
Votes on Final Passage:
Senate | 48 | 1 | |
House | 96 | 1 |
Effective: | June 9, 2016 |