SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 5461

As of March 5, 2001

Title:  An act relating to housing assistance for school district employees.

Brief Description:  Providing housing assistance for school district employees.

Sponsors:  Senators Jacobsen, McAuliffe and Rasmussen.

Brief History:

Committee Activity:  Education:  2/28/01.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON EDUCATION

Staff:  Susan Mielke (786‑7422)

Background:  There are state and private programs in Washington providing home-buying down payment assistance for qualified buyers.  However, these programs are not specifically designed to assist school employees.

Summary of Bill:  School districts may run a levy to fund a housing allowance for non-supervisory classified and certificated employees.  The levy must meet the 60/40 approval requirements imposed by the state Constitution.  The housing allowance is subject to collective bargaining and is not considered compensation for the purposes of salary limits or retirement benefits.

Substitute Bill Compared to Original Bill:  The original bill was not considered.

Appropriation:  None.

Fiscal Note:  Not requested.

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