SENATE BILL REPORT
SJR 8212
As of January 20, 2022
Brief Description: Removing the superintendent of public instruction as a statewide elected official.
Sponsors: Senators Carlyle and Hunt.
Brief History:
Committee Activity: Early Learning & K-12 Education: 1/21/22.
Brief Summary of Bill
  • Amends the State Constitution to require the Governor to appoint the Superintendent of Public Instruction subject to confirmation by the Senate instead of this being a separately elected statewide office.
SENATE COMMITTEE ON EARLY LEARNING & K-12 EDUCATION
Staff: Ailey Kato (786-7434)
Background:

The State Constitution establishes eight separately elected statewide offices in the executive branch of state government.  The Superintendent of Public Instruction is one of these offices.  Under Article III, Section 22 of the State Constitution, the Superintendent has supervision over all matters pertaining to public schools and must perform other specific duties as required by law.

 

A proposed amendment to the State Constitution must be approved by two-thirds of the members elected to each house of the Legislature, and then approved by a majority of the voters in the next general election.
Summary of Bill:

The State Constitution is amended to remove all references to the Superintendent of Public Instruction as being a separately elected statewide office.  The Governor must appoint the Superintendent who serves subject to confirmation by the Senate and at the pleasure of the Governor. 

 

The current Superintendent of Public Instruction must continue in office for the remainder of the term for which they were elected and until a successor is appointed.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Requested on January 14, 2022.
Creates Committee/Commission/Task Force that includes Legislative members: No.
Effective Date: The resolution is subject to ratification by the voters at the next general election.