SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 5189

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.

Background: Under current Washington law, if a school board provides access to the campus and the student information directory to people or groups that make students aware of occupational or education options, then the board must provide the same access to military recruiters for the purpose of informing students of educational and career opportunities in the military.

Under the federal No Child Left Behind Act, school districts that receive federal funds must provide military recruiters the same access to secondary school students that is provided generally to post secondary educational institutions or to prospective employers.

Summary of Bill: If the board of directors of a school district chooses to provide campus access to people or groups for the purpose of making students aware of occupational or educational options, including those in the military, the school board must provide the people, groups, or representatives an opportunity to access the campus on at least three separate dates during the school year. Each of the three dates must be separated by at least one month.

Staff Summary of Public Testimony: PRO: It is sad that people think serving in the armed forces is not honorable. It is an honorable profession. The military plays a positive role for young people. The military gives opportunity. Colin Powell never would have been Secretary of State with being in the military. For the most part colleges and schools have a great relationship with the military. It is not fair to discriminate against an honorable profession. Military recruiters are limited to two visits per year in most schools. It is extremely difficult to get into schools to volunteer, coach, etc. As military recruiters, we want to have the opportunity to address the student body like any other organization. It is important to have equal time and opportunity for students to come talk to all branches of the military. Colleges are often given an entire room and day for students to come talk about opportunities. Some students have to visit recruiting offices on their own, which takes extra work. We are very proud to represent the military and are often from the communities we serve. We’re not just there for the students that will join the military. The military has something to offer every student with a test preparation program and a career aptitude test. We want to help students graduate. To become a military recruiter, a noncommissioned officer has to go through record check, a 16-week school with many levels to pass, and a six-month trial period when first on recruiting duty. There are lots of checks and balances to become a recruiter.

OTHER: I have a great appreciation for military. However, our concern is about putting in state law the actual number of days allowed on campus. This goes against local control. Additionally, the bill allows any group on campus for at least three days.