OLYMPIA, Wash. — The state Senate has approved a ban on Native American mascots at most public schools in Washington.
The bill now heads back to the House.
Under the measure, school districts would have some time to phase out the mascot, team name or logo, but they would be required to select a new mascot by December 31 to take effect by the end of the 2021-22 school year.
The ban does not apply to schools located within Native American areas or to schools in counties adjacent to Native American areas, as long as the nearest tribe is consulted and authorizes the use of the name.
The Bellingham School District is currently considering a new mascot for Bellingham High School as it looks to retire the “Red Raiders” name.