SENATE BILL REPORT
SB 5172
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. |
As of February 20, 2009
Title: An act relating to establishing a University of Washington center for human rights.
Brief Description: Establishing a University of Washington center for human rights.
Sponsors: Senators Shin, Hobbs, Kastama, McAuliffe, Jarrett, Pridemore, Brown, Keiser, Jacobsen, Kohl-Welles and Kline.
Brief History:
Committee Activity: Higher Education & Workforce Development: 2/20/09.
SENATE COMMITTEE ON HIGHER EDUCATION & WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT |
Staff: Wendy Malkin (786-7434)
Background: At least ten universities in the United States have centers for human rights, including the University of Iowa, the University of Texas at Austin, and the University of California, Berkeley. Each center has a slightly different focus, but generally the centers provide an interdisciplinary location for research, policy analysis, and dialogue on human rights. Some of the centers have an internship or advocacy component. Most of the centers are located in a law school or a public policy school, but a few are located in other areas, such as international programs.
The University of Washington has a human rights program that allows students at the Seattle, Tacoma, and Bothell campuses to obtain a minor in human rights. Students can choose from a selection of courses taught across the university's three campuses.
Summary of Bill: The bill as referred to committee not considered.
Summary of Bill (Proposed Substitute): The University of Washington Center for Human Rights is created. The mission of the center is to expand opportunities for Washington residents to receive a world-class education in human rights, generate research data and expert knowledge to enhance public and private policymaking, and become an academic center for human rights teaching and research in the nation. Key substantive issues for the center include the rights of all persons to security against violence; the rights of immigrants, Native Americans, and ethnic or religious minorities; human rights and the environment; health as a human right; human rights and trade; the human rights of working people; and women's rights as human rights.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Not requested.
Committee/Commission/Task Force Created: No.
Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.