Title
Consideration of a Resolution Expressing the City Council’s Collective Opposition to Initiative to the Legislature No. 26-001 Concerning Parental Rights Relating to Their Children in Public School
Recommended Action
Committee Recommendation:
Not referred to a committee.
City Manager Recommendation:
Accept testimony from everyone who wishes to speak for or against the Initiative to the Legislature No. 26-001.
Motion if Council wishes to oppose the Initiative:
Move to Adopt the Resolution Expressing City Council Opposition to Initiative to the Legislature No. 26-001.
No action is needed if Council does not wish to adopt the Resolution.
Report
Issue:
Whether to collectively oppose Initiative to the Legislature No. 26-001 (IL26-001) concerning parental rights relating to their children in public school.
Staff Contact:
Mark Barber, City Attorney, 360-753-8338
Presenter(s):
None.
Background and Analysis:
IL26-001, filed in 2025 as an initiative to the Legislature, was not acted upon during the 2026 Regular Session and will therefore appears on the November 2026 general election ballot for voter approval or rejection.
IL26-001 would re-enact certain rights of parents and guardians of public school children set forth in Initiative 2081, passed in 2024 and known as the Washington Declaration of Parental and Legal Guardian Rights, including the rights to review curriculum materials and student records, receive certain notifications about medical services being offered or provided or law enforcement actions, and permitting parental opt-outs of academic activities addressing sexuality, religion, and mental health.
IL26-001 would also reverse 2025 changes (ESHB 1296) that consolidated parental rights and resolved conflicts with state and federal law.
In 2025, the City Council passed Resolution No. M-2591, declaring Olympia’s commitment to fostering a community where all individuals are treated with dignity, equity, and respect, regardless of gender identity, sexual orientation or gender expression, by declaring the City to be an inviting, equitable and safe community for LGBTQIA2S+ people.
The impact of Initiative No. IL26-001 would be to reduce or altogether eliminate the possibility of confidential support within the public school environment, thereby leaving LGBTQIA2S+ youth either unsupported or less likely to seek needed support.
School counselors and healthcare staff can provide a supportive presence to LGBTQIA2S+ youth who may be struggling with a wide range of issues, including those related to gender identity, sexual orientation or gender expression. Studies show that there are LGBTQIA2S+ youth who may not be safe in their homes due to such issues and need the support that school staff or other trusted adults can provide. Studies have also shown that LGBTQIA2S+ youth who live in unsupportive homes face higher rates of depression, abuse, and homelessness.
Climate Analysis:
IL26-001 does not impact the environment.
Equity Analysis:
The City of Olympia is committed to fostering a community where all individuals are treated with dignity, equity, and respect, regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. One way in which the City demonstrates an ongoing commitment to community and City Council values is support or oppose legislation that promotes discrimination, harm, or inequity.
Neighborhood/Community Interests (if known):
The public hearing related to the proposed resolution provides an opportunity for members of the public to express their views on the initiative before the City Council takes any action on the resolution.
Financial Impact:
None.
Options:
1. Approve the Resolution.
2. Approve the Resolution with modifications.
3. Do not approve the Resolution.
Attachments:
Resolution