(1) The OSPI may require districts to submit a collaborative request for payments under Part B of the act if it is determined that a single district would be disapproved because the district is unable to establish and maintain programs of sufficient size and scope to effectively meet the educational needs of students eligible for special education services. Districts that apply for Part B funds in a collaborative request must meet the same minimum requirements as a single school district applicant. The request must be signed by the superintendent of each participating school district. The districts are jointly responsible for implementing programs receiving payments under Part B of the act. The total amount of funds made available to the affected school districts will be equal to the sum each would have received separately.

(2) The OSPI may not require a charter school to jointly establish its eligibility under subsection (1) of this section unless the charter school is explicitly permitted to do so under chapter 28A.710 RCW.