SENATE BILL REPORT

                                   SSB 5305

                      AS PASSED SENATE, JANUARY 27, 1992

Brief Description:  Conditioning the reduction of a student's suspension on the commencement of counseling.

SPONSORS:Senate Committee on Education (originally sponsored by Senators Owen and Craswell).

SENATE COMMITTEE ON EDUCATION

Majority Report:  That Substitute Senate Bill No. 5305 be substituted therefor, and the substitute bill do pass.

      Signed by Senators Bailey, Chairman; Erwin, Vice Chairman; Anderson, Craswell, Metcalf, Murray, Oke, Pelz, Rinehart, and A. Smith. 

Staff:  Leslie Goldstein (786‑7424)

Hearing Dates:February 13, 1991; February 21, 1991

HOUSE COMMITTEE ON EDUCATION

BACKGROUND:

The State Board of Education has adopted rules regarding short-term and long-term suspension of students.  These rules are to ensure due process for students.  Local school district boards of directors also adopt codes of conduct for students.

SUMMARY:

A school district may reduce the length of a student's suspension if the student undergoes counseling or other treatment services.  Current law regarding school district liability is not changed.

A school district is not obligated to pay for counseling or treatment services except those agreed to by the district.

Appropriation:  none

Revenue:  none

Fiscal Note:  none requested

TESTIMONY FOR:

This bill will prevent litigation and helps districts reduce the length of suspension on certain conditions without the district being required to pay.

TESTIMONY AGAINST:  None

TESTIFIED:  Senator Brad Owen, prime sponsor (pro); Karl Davies (pro); Timothy Paschal, Central Kitsap School District (pro)

HOUSE AMENDMENT(S):

School districts are encouraged to use community service as an alternative to student suspension.  By February 1, 1993, the Superintendent of Public Instruction is required to provide information to school districts about community service programs and the issues involved in using community service as an alternative.  The Superintendent shall develop guidelines and help clarify issues such as liability, supervision and transportation.