HOUSE RESOLUTION NO. 2026-4711

HR 4711

ByRepresentatives Santos, Zahn, Stearns, Ryu, Parshley, Duerr, Taylor, Salahuddin, Leavitt, Callan, Couture, Kloba, Ybarra, Nance, Richards, Keaton, Goodman, Barnard, Hall, Paul, Hill, Engell, Thai, Thomas, and Stuebe

WHEREAS, On November 29, 1975, the United States enacted the Education for All Handicapped Children act, marking a historic commitment to children with disabilities and ensuring their right to a free, appropriate public education; and

WHEREAS, This civil rights measure established and enshrined fundamental principles which continue to shape the way children with disabilities and their families interact with the public education systems in the United States; and

WHEREAS, In the 1990s, the law was renamed the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and broadened to serve more students with disabilities, to strengthen access to general education curriculum, and to increase parent and family rights to mediation in a grievance; and

WHEREAS, Since its inception, IDEA has provided millions of students nationwide, including more than 140,000 students across Washington state, with greater inclusion and educational opportunities each year; and

WHEREAS, Washington continues to advance the spirit and requirements of IDEA through the work of families, educators, related-service providers, school districts, tribes, state agencies, and disability rights advocates who strive every day to support the growth, dignity, and potential of each student; and

WHEREAS, The 50th anniversary of IDEA provides an important opportunity to recognize the profound impact of this landmark civil rights law, to honor the individuals and communities who uphold its promise, and to reaffirm the importance of providing an inclusive, accessible, and high-quality education for all learners; and

WHEREAS, Washington state remains dedicated to strengthening equitable educational practices, expanding access to services, and ensuring that every student has an equal opportunity to learn, participate, and thrive in our schools and communities without discrimination based on one's disability;

NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, That the Washington State House of Representatives celebrates the 50th Anniversary of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act and encourages all Washingtonians to join in celebrating the contributions of individuals with disabilities.