FINAL BILL REPORT
SHB 2037
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. |
C 175 L 17
Synopsis as Enacted
Brief Description: Reauthorizing the work group concerned with removing obstacles for higher education students with disabilities.
Sponsors: House Committee on Higher Education (originally sponsored by Representatives Frame, Haler, Ryu, Pollet, Stambaugh, Kagi, Kilduff, Tarleton, Fitzgibbon, Jinkins, Bergquist and McDonald).
House Committee on Higher Education
Senate Committee on Higher Education
Background:
Based on federal and state laws, reasonable accommodations for students with disabilities must be provided as appropriate for all aspects of college and university life, including recruitment, applications, enrollment, registration, financial aid, coursework, research, academic counseling, housing programs, and nonacademic services.
Legislation was enacted in 2016 requiring the Council of Presidents (COP) to convene a workgroup to develop a plan for removing obstacles for students with disabilities in higher education. The workgroup included representatives from the State Board of Community and Technical Colleges, four-year institutions, the Washington Student Achievement Council, statewide student associations, and at least two students with disabilities selected by student associations.
The workgroup's plan focused on standardizing medical documentation requirements, standardizing intake and review procedures, and developing best practices for institutions to provide outreach to students. The workgroup met six times during the interim, conducted a student survey, and among other things, developed best practices that focus on different stages of the transfer process. The COP submitted a report to the Legislature in December of 2016.
The legislation creating the workgroup is set to expire on August 1, 2017.
Summary:
The expiration date of the workgroup is extended to August 1, 2018. The workgroup must continue developing a plan that focuses on removing obstacles for students with disabilities. The workgroup's plan must also focus on addressing changing methods of delivering course content, the availability of course materials in an accessible manner, and the supplemental course material provided by third parties.
The COP must provide the plan to the Higher Education committees of the Legislature by December 31, 2017.
Votes on Final Passage:
House | 97 | 0 | |
Senate | 49 | 0 |
Effective: | July 23, 2017 |