Washington State

House of Representatives

Office of Program Research

BILL

ANALYSIS

Higher Education Committee

SB 5316

This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent.

Brief Description: Changing the timeline for the state comprehensive plan for workforce training and education.

Sponsors: Senators Jarrett, Kilmer, Delvin, Kastama, Jacobsen, Shin and Pflug; by request of Workforce Training and Education Coordinating Board.

Brief Summary of Bill

  • Requires the Workforce Training and Education Coordinating Board to update the statewide comprehensive workforce training plan every four years.

  • Requires the comprehensive plan to cover a 10-year time period.

Hearing Date: 3/24/09

Staff: Andi Smith (786-7304)

Background:

The Workforce Training and Education Coordinating Board (WTECB) is a Governor-appointed body representing a partnership of 12 members from business, labor, and government. The WTECB advises the Governor on workforce development policy, ensures that the state’s workforce preparation services and programs work together, and evaluates performance.

The WTECB is charged with developing and maintaining a state comprehensive plan for workforce training and education. Under current law, an updated plan is submitted to the Legislature and the Governor every two years. State law does not require a specific time horizon for the plan. The plan submitted by the WTECB for 2008 is entitled High Skills, High Wages, and it is a 10-year plan for Washington's workforce development system.

Summary of Bill:

The WTECB must develop state comprehensive plans for a 10-year time period. The WTECB must submit an update of the 10-year plan to the Legislature and the Governor every four years. The first update is due on December 1, 2012.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Available.

Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of the session in which the bill is passed.