SENATE RESOLUTION

                                                                  1993-8630

By Senators M. Rasmussen and Skratek

         WHEREAS, The development of a world class education system and a highly trained work force is essential to promoting economic development in Washington State; and

         WHEREAS, Policy makers, employers, employees, educators, and community leaders should work together to create a globally competitive work force that is educated, skilled, and adaptable; and

         WHEREAS, Washington State has made significant progress toward reforming our education system, training and retraining workers, coordinating state work force training initiatives, and promoting international trade and economic development; and

         WHEREAS, A long-term strategic plan is essential to ensuring that Washington citizens can compete in a global economy; and

         WHEREAS, The National Conference of State Legislatures and Jobs for the Future are soliciting proposals from state legislative leaders to develop integrated systems for work force preparation and economic development; and

         WHEREAS, The National Conference of State Legislatures and Jobs for the Future have designed the "Investing in People" project to help states achieve their economic and educational goals; and

         WHEREAS, Governor Lowry and the legislative leaders of the Senate and the House of Representatives have declared their intention to participate in the "Investing in People" project;

         NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the Washington State Senate applaud and endorse the goals of the work force preparation and economic development project developed by the National Conference of State Legislatures and Jobs for the Future; and

         BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That the Senate declare its intention to participate as a partner with the National Conference of State Legislatures, Jobs for the Future, and selected states in the "Investing in People" project; and

         BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That copies of this resolution be immediately transmitted by the Secretary of the Senate to the National Conference of State Legislatures.