Save Rainier School: Risky and disruptive transition proposal for vulnerable populations
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Consultation has concluded
Senate Bill 5393is a deeply flawed proposal that prioritizes budget concerns over the well-being of some of Washington’s most vulnerable residents and the dedicated staff who serve them. The bill mandates the closure of Rainier School—a longstanding residential facility for individuals with developmental disabilities—by June 30, 2027, and prohibits all new admissions effective immediately.
Disrupts the lives of vulnerable individuals
While the bill describes a “safe transition” into community-based settings, the reality for many residents is far less certain. Individuals served by Rainier often have significant medical and behavioral needs that cannot easily be replicated in smaller, less specialized environments. There is no guarantee that community-based services will offer the same level of care, structure, or stability that Rainier has provided for decades.
Overpromises and underdelivers on cost savings
Supporters claim this move will generate long-term savings, but the projected $14 million in savings is speculative. It fails to account for potential increases in crisis placements, emergency hospitalizations, or homelessness among those who may not thrive in alternative settings.
Driven by ideology—not people-first priorities
This bill is part of a broader push by the governor’s office to pursue deinstitutionalization, but it comes without a clear implementation plan or a guaranteed safety net for residents or staff. Instead of expanding unproven programs, the Legislature should focus on strengthening and preserving proven facilities like Rainier.
Harms rural communities and threatens jobs
Rainier School is one of the largest employers in Buckley (Pierce County), and its closure would deal a serious blow to the local economy. Although the bill directs the Department of Social and Health Services to offer alternate roles to affected employees, there is no guarantee that equivalent positions will be available or that staff can remain in their communities. Skilled, experienced workers who have dedicated their lives to serving people with disabilities risk being displaced or forced to leave the field entirely.
Senate Bill 5393is a deeply flawed proposal that prioritizes budget concerns over the well-being of some of Washington’s most vulnerable residents and the dedicated staff who serve them. The bill mandates the closure of Rainier School—a longstanding residential facility for individuals with developmental disabilities—by June 30, 2027, and prohibits all new admissions effective immediately.
Disrupts the lives of vulnerable individuals
While the bill describes a “safe transition” into community-based settings, the reality for many residents is far less certain. Individuals served by Rainier often have significant medical and behavioral needs that cannot easily be replicated in smaller, less specialized environments. There is no guarantee that community-based services will offer the same level of care, structure, or stability that Rainier has provided for decades.
Overpromises and underdelivers on cost savings
Supporters claim this move will generate long-term savings, but the projected $14 million in savings is speculative. It fails to account for potential increases in crisis placements, emergency hospitalizations, or homelessness among those who may not thrive in alternative settings.
Driven by ideology—not people-first priorities
This bill is part of a broader push by the governor’s office to pursue deinstitutionalization, but it comes without a clear implementation plan or a guaranteed safety net for residents or staff. Instead of expanding unproven programs, the Legislature should focus on strengthening and preserving proven facilities like Rainier.
Harms rural communities and threatens jobs
Rainier School is one of the largest employers in Buckley (Pierce County), and its closure would deal a serious blow to the local economy. Although the bill directs the Department of Social and Health Services to offer alternate roles to affected employees, there is no guarantee that equivalent positions will be available or that staff can remain in their communities. Skilled, experienced workers who have dedicated their lives to serving people with disabilities risk being displaced or forced to leave the field entirely.
