FINAL BILL REPORT

                 2SHB 1814

                         C 7 L 95 E1

                     Synopsis as Enacted

Brief Description:  Changing provisions relating to the Washington award for vocational excellence.

Sponsors:  House Committee on Appropriations (originally sponsored by Representative Carlson).

House Committee on Higher Education

House Committee on Appropriations

Senate Committee on Higher Education

Background:  In 1984, the Legislature created the Washington Award for Vocational Excellence (WAVE) program.  Through the annual award program, up to three students in each legislative district are honored for their outstanding performances in occupational training programs.  The students are selected for their achievements, leadership abilities, and community contributions.  At least two of the three students selected in each legislative district are expected to be graduating high school students.  The program is administered by the Workforce Training and Education Coordinating Board.

Recipients of the WAVE award are eligible for a tuition and fee waiver at all state colleges and universities.   The recipients may receive the waiver for up to two years of postsecondary work if they have entered a state college or university within three years of high school graduation.  In order to receive a waiver in the second year of their studies, they must maintain at least a three point grade point average or an above average rating at a technical college. 

Colleges and universities must waive tuition and fees for students who received their WAVE award before June 30, 1994.  Technical colleges must waive tuition and fees for students who receive their award after that date.  Other state colleges and universities have the option of providing full, partial, or no waivers to students who receive their award after that date.

Summary:   State supported colleges and universities will waive tuition and fees for up to two years for WAVE recipients who received their award before June 30, 1994.  The Higher Education Coordinating Board will administer a grant program for students who receive their award after that date.  The recipients will not receive a tuition waiver.  Instead, they are eligible for a grant that does not exceed the annual tuition and fees at a research university.  Students may use the grant to attend an institution of higher education, independent college or university, or licensed private vocational school located in the state of Washington.   In order to receive a grant, recipients must enter a college, university, or private vocational school within three years of high school graduation.   Recipients must attain at least a three-point grade point average or, at a technical college, an above average rating in order to receive a grant in the second year of their studies. 

Votes on Final Passage:

House     96 0

First Special Session

House     92 0

Senate    44 0

Effective:  August 22, 1995