In 2022, Washington State passed SB 5790 to improve transition planning and coordination for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities as they prepare to leave high school. The law strengthened collaboration between the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction, the Department of Social and Health Services, and the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation, with a focus on expanding access to School-to-Work services and creating clearer pathways to employment and community participation. It also supported the development of regional transition networks to better align schools, service providers, and state systems.

The bill addressed long-standing gaps in how students move from school-based supports to adult services, particularly the lack of consistency across regions and limited early connection to employment services. It emphasized earlier planning, improved data sharing, and more coordinated systems to reduce confusion for students and families. At the same time, it highlighted the importance of implementation at the local level to ensure these improvements lead to real, equitable access to opportunities after high school.