HOUSE BILL REPORT

2SSB 5236

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 Reported by House Committee On:

College & Workforce Development

Title: An act relating to encouraging apprenticeships.

Brief Description: Encouraging apprenticeships.

Sponsors: Senate Committee on Ways & Means (originally sponsored by Senators Keiser, Conway, Wellman, Braun, Saldaña, Hasegawa, Wilson, C., Kuderer, Takko, Das and Frockt).

Brief History:

Committee Activity:

College & Workforce Development: 3/19/19, 3/27/19 [DP], 2/25/20, 2/27/20 [DPA].

Brief Summary of Second Substitute Bill

(As Amended by Committee)

  • Modifies the reporting date and the definition of "prior learning" for the Academic Credit for Prior Learning Work Group.

HOUSE COMMITTEE ON COLLEGE & WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT

Majority Report: Do pass as amended. Signed by 17 members: Representatives Hansen, Chair; Entenman, Vice Chair; Leavitt, Vice Chair; Van Werven, Ranking Minority Member; Gildon, Assistant Ranking Minority Member; Graham, Assistant Ranking Minority Member; Bergquist, Kraft, Mead, Paul, Pollet, Ramos, Rude, Sells, Slatter, Sutherland and Young.

Staff: Megan Mulvihill (786-7304).

Background:

Registered Apprenticeships.

Apprenticeship programs combine paid on-the-job training with classroom instruction that typically leads to a credential, certification, or journey-level status in a particular trade or profession. The Washington State Apprenticeship and Training Council, which is part of the Department of Labor and Industries (L&I), establishes standards for and approves apprenticeship programs. Registered apprenticeships must have a minimum of:

Academic Credit for Prior Learning Work Group.

In 2012 the Legislature directed the Washington Student Achievement Council (WSAC) to convene an Academic Credit for Prior Learning (ACPL) Work Group to, among other things, increase the number of students who receive academic credit for prior learning that counts towards earning a credential, certificate, or degree. For the purpose of the ACPL Work Group, "prior learning" means the knowledge and skills gained through: (1) work and life experience; (2) military training and experience; and (3) formal and informal education and training from in-state and out-of-state institutions including foreign institutions.

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Summary of Amended Bill:

The date from when the WSAC must report on the progress of the ACPL Work Group is changed from December 31 to December 10. In addition, the definition of "prior learning" is expanded to include knowledge and skills gained through hours of work and instruction as a registered apprentice.

Amended Bill Compared to Second Substitute Bill:

The striking amendment removed the requirement for the L&I to employ a coordinator to consult with the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction and the Department of Health to establish registered apprenticeships in public education and health care. The striking amendment also removed the membership additions to the ACPL Work Group.

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Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Available.

Effective Date of Amended Bill: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of the session in which the bill is passed.

Staff Summary of Public Testimony:

(In support) The Professional Educator Standards Board (PESB) sets the rules for certificates and programs for educators. Therefore, the PESB should have a roll in the bill. The PESB has value to add when considering apprenticeships for education.

(Opposed) None.

Persons Testifying: Justin Montermini, Professional Educator Standards Board.

Persons Signed In To Testify But Not Testifying: None.