Olympia, WA (March 28, 2024) – Today, Washington Governor Jay Inslee signed a bill establishing a zero-emission transition requirement for the state’s school bus fleet of more than 12,000 buses. The bill enhances the existing Zero-Emission School Bus Grant Program to further support the procurement of zero-emission school buses, infrastructure and other associated expenses. The program will prioritize funding for school districts currently using school buses manufactured prior to 2007 — which have higher emissions rates of greenhouse gases that contribute to climate change — and overburdened communities, including communities of color, rural and low-income communities, and those highly impacted by air pollution.

Said Sue Gander, Director of WRI’s Electric School Bus Initiative:

“We applaud Washington Governor Inslee and the State Legislature for their leadership to accelerate Washington’s equitable transition to a clean and healthy ride to school for students across the state. This new rule is good for kids, communities and the climate. Harmful diesel school bus exhaust can lead to health issues like asthma, which is a leading cause of school absenteeism, that disproportionately affect those who rely more heavily on school buses: Black students, low-income students and children with disabilities. Providing funding for this transition and prioritizing communities most impacted by air pollution will help ensure the protection and improved health of the children and residents who need it most."