HOUSE BILL REPORT

SB 6430

As Passed House:

March 5, 2002

Title:  An act relating to high school diplomas for World War II veterans.

Brief Description:  Authorizing issuance of high school diplomas to World War II veterans who were both honorably discharged and left high school before graduation to serve in World War II.

Sponsors:  By Senators Zarelli, McAuliffe and Oke.

Brief History:

Committee Activity:

Education:  2/21/02, 2/26/02 [DP].

Floor Activity:

Passed House: 3/5/02, 97-0.

Brief Summary of Bill

$Permits local school districts to issue high school diplomas to honorably discharged World War II veterans who left high school in order to serve in the war.

HOUSE COMMITTEE ON EDUCATION

Majority Report:  Do pass. Signed by 10 members: Representatives Quall, Chair; Haigh, Vice Chair; Talcott, Ranking Minority Member; Anderson, McDermott, Rockefeller, Santos, Schindler, Schmidt and Upthegrove.

Staff:  Susan Morrissey (786‑7111).

Background:

Under current law, local school districts must issue high school diplomas to students who have successfully completed all state and local graduation requirements.

Summary of Bill:

Local school districts may issue high school diplomas to honorably discharged World War II veterans who left high school before graduation in order to serve in the war.  The diplomas may be awarded to veterans who were scheduled to graduate between 1940 and 1951.  Eligible veterans include those who received  high school equivalency certifications and those who are deceased.

The Superintendent of Public Instruction must specify the evidence requirements necessary to prove eligibility for the diploma.  Veterans and those working on behalf of deceased veterans must apply for the diplomas using forms prepared and provided by the Superintendent of Public Instruction.

Appropriation:  None.

Fiscal Note:  Not Requested.

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

Testimony For:  The World War II veterans honored through this legislation gave up the chance to earn high school diplomas in order to defend our country.  Giving school districts the opportunity to honor the accomplishments of these heros will benefit students and the community as much as veterans and their families.

Testimony Against:  None.

Testified:  Senator Zarelli, prime sponsor; and David Harris, Washington State Veteran=s Legislative Coalition.