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Dear Friends and Neighbors,
This week, the future of Rainier School is on the line.
Senate Bill 5393—a proposal to shut down Rainier School by 2027—is scheduled for a critical hearing in the House Appropriations Committee tomorrow, April 22.
Because we’re near the end of session, the time to speak up is limited! A committee vote could come as soon as Wednesday to push this bill through the process before the Legislature adjourns on April 27.
I’m urging you to take action today to help stop this deeply flawed bill.
Rainier School is home to individuals with the most profound developmental disabilities—people who have already tried and failed in other placements. This bill would take away the only place some of our most vulnerable neighbors can safely live, without a clear plan for where they will go next.
Even more troubling, this proposal is no longer about saving money. Yakima Valley School was removed from the bill, wiping out any fiscal rationale. What’s left is a cold, ideological push to eliminate Rainier—no matter the human cost.
We know the risks. When Fircrest was downsized, 10% of residents died. We cannot let history repeat itself.
Here’s how you can help. Click on the links below:
- Sign up to testify in the Appropriations Committee
- Send a message to committee members asking them to reject SB 5393
Even if you can’t attend the hearing, written comments make a real impact. Please share your story, your concerns, and your voice.
Rainier’s residents, families, and staff are not obstacles to progress. They are the lifeline for a fragile community that depends on stability and care.
We don’t need rushed closures. We need compassion, safety, and real solutions.
Let’s make sure the Legislature hears us loud and clear: Stop Senate Bill 5393. Save Rainier School. Protect the vulnerable.
Thank you for standing with us.
Sincerely,
Joshua Penner
