SENATE BILL REPORT

                   SB 5197

                    As of February 14, 1995

Title:  An act relating to job opportunities and basic skills training program participation criteria.

Brief Description:  Modifying criteria for JOBS program participation.

Sponsors:  Senators Quigley, Winsley, Gaspard, Sheldon, Snyder and Haugen; by request of Governor Lowry.

Brief History:

Committee Activity:  Health & Long-Term Care:  2/17/95.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON HEALTH & LONG-TERM CARE

Staff:  Joanne Conrad (786-7472)

Background:  The federal Family Support Act of 1988 established the "Job Opportunities and Basic Skills" (JOBS) program, intended to promote employability and self-sufficiency among welfare recipients.  Washington State implemented the program on a voluntary basis, serving a limited number of persons.

Summary of Bill:  JOBS program participation is mandatory for all non-exempt recipients.  "Good cause" criteria may exempt some recipients from participating.

Appropriation:  None.

Fiscal Note:  Available.

Effective Date:  Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.