SENATE BILL REPORT

                   SB 5643

                    As of February 10, 1995

Title:  An act relating to educational, cultural, and business exchange programs.

Brief Description:  Promoting sister relationships with other countries.

Sponsors:  Senators Fraser, Fairley, McAuliffe, Hale, Kohl, Prince, Rasmussen, Wood, Johnson, Franklin, C. Anderson and Winsley.

Brief History:

Committee Activity:  Labor, Commerce & Trade:  2/13/95.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON LABOR, COMMERCE & TRADE

Staff:  Patrick Woods (786-7430)

Background:  In 1990, a study by the House Subcommittee on International Education found that three out of every five university graduates in the state will work in an area directly related to trade.  The subcommittee also found that international activities and programs are increasingly important to the academic mission of educators.

In order to address these findings, the Legislature in 1993 established the Task Force on International Education and Cultural Exchanges, and authorized it to make recommendations on a broad array of issues pertaining to international trade and cultural exchange policies and  programs.

The Task Force, in its 1994 report to the Legislature, recommended that "Washington communities involved in international sister-city, county and port programs encourage the school districts within their jurisdictions to establish sister-school relationships with their counterparts."  In addition, the Task Force requested the Legislature to "direct the Office of Protocol and the Department of Community, Trade, and Economic Development to provide information and encouragement for the formation and perpetuation of sister-city, county and port relationships.

Summary of Bill: The Legislature recognizes the importance of educational, cultural, and business exchange programs in developing mutually beneficial relationships between Washington State and other countries.  In order to promote international trade and enhance international educational opportunities, the Legislature strongly encourages cities, counties, ports and others to establish sister school relationships within their already established sister relationships.

The Department of Community, Trade, and Economic Development, in consultation with the Office of International Relations and Protocol, is directed to provide information and assist local governments in maintaining their established  sister relationships.

Appropriation:  None.

Fiscal Note:  Requested on February 7, 1995.

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