OLYMPIA, Wash. — A new law establishing student rights in schools is now in effect following Gov. Bob Ferguson's signature.

The legislation, House Bill 1296 , has sparked debate, with opponents arguing it undermines parental rights established by a voter-backed initiative last year, Initiative 2081.

"The top priority for our schools should be to ensure a safe learning environment where every student has the chance to thrive," Ferguson said during the bill signing ceremony Tuesday morning.

Proponents of the bill say it guarantees students' rights to safety and privacy, allowing them to share sensitive information, such as gender identity or sexual orientation, without fear of being "outed" to their families.

"The young people in our schools deserve a place where they can be seen and

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