SENATE BILL REPORT

                   SB 5603

                    As of February 8, 1999

Title:  An act relating to educational opportunities for classified employees of school districts and educational service districts.

Brief Description:  Providing a tuition waiver at public institutions of higher education for permanent school district and educational service district employees on a space‑available basis.

Sponsors:  Senators McAuliffe, Finkbeiner, Kohl‑Welles, Long, Bauer, Shin, B. Sheldon, Oke and Costa.

Brief History:

Committee Activity:  Higher Education:  2/10/99.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON HIGHER EDUCATION

Staff:  Natalie Adams (786-7444)

Background:  State employees may attend state colleges and universities on a space available basis under a tuition and fee waiver program.  These students do not affect enrollment reports or budgetary determinations.  Currently, classified employees of school districts and educational service districts are not eligible to benefit from the program.

Summary of Bill:  Permanent classified employees of school districts and educational service districts are added to the list of eligible state employees who may attend state colleges and universities under the waiver program.

Appropriation:  None.

Fiscal Note:  Not requested.

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