SB 6168 - DIGEST
(DIGEST AS ENACTED)

Reduces costs in state elementary and secondary education programs.

 
VETO MESSAGE ON SB 6168

May 19, 2009

To the Honorable President and Members,
The Senate of the State of Washington

Ladies and Gentlemen:

I have approved, except for Sections 3, 4 and 8, Senate Bill 6168 entitled:

"AN ACT Relating to reducing costs in state elementary and secondary education programs."

Sections 3 and 4 refer to the availability of funds as the determinate for whether these important programs are implemented. Because all programs are dependent on legislative appropriations, the addition of this language has no substantive effect. I am concerned, however, that future budget writers might erroneously conclude that these programs are in a different status than other programs and consider not funding them solely because of the addition of this new language. As a result, I have vetoed Sections 3 and 4 of Senate Bill 6168.

Section 8 of Senate Bill 6168 amends RCW 28A.625.020, Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction annual recognition program. RCW 28A.625.020 is also repealed by Section 20(6) of Senate Bill 5889 which I signed earlier today. Therefore, I am not approving Section 8 of Senate Bill 6168 to correct a potential double amendment and conflicting policy.

For these reasons, I have vetoed Sections 3, 4 and 8 of Senate Bill 6168.

With the exception of Sections 3, 4 and 8, Senate Bill 6168 is approved.

Respectfully submitted,
Christine O. Gregoire
Governor