A proposed bill aims to eliminate the $25 fee for obtaining birth certificates when requested by parents or guardians for school enrollment purposes. This significant change, discussed during the Senate Higher Education & Workforce Development meeting on February 17, 2025, is designed to ease access to vital records for families, particularly those receiving basic food benefits or who are part of assistance units.

Under the current system, the Department of Health and local registrars charge a fee for copies of vital records, including birth certificates. The new legislation would require the Department of Health to waive this fee, allowing parents to provide necessary documentation for their children’s enrollment in early childhood education programs and K-12 schools without financial barriers.

The bill mandates that the Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) and the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI) adopt rules to accept various forms of documentation, including birth certificates and passports, to verify a child's age for enrollment. This move is expected to streamline the enrollment process for eligible children aged 3 to 5 years and ensure that all children have the opportunity to access education.

However, the bill comes with financial implications. It is projected to impact the general fund by $246,000 in the 2025-2027 biennium, with a total estimated cost of $386,000 over four years. Additional costs will arise for the Department of Health and OSPI related to rule-making and updating their systems. The Department of Health anticipates a potential revenue loss of $200,000 to $300,000 annually due to the waived fees.

As the bill progresses, it highlights the ongoing commitment to making education more accessible for all families, particularly those in need. The next steps will involve further discussions and potential adjustments as lawmakers consider the fiscal impacts alongside the benefits of increased access to education for young children.