SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 5944

As of February 28, 2001

Title:  An act relating to a civic education day.

Brief Description:  Requiring a civic education day in schools.

Sponsors:  Senators McAuliffe, Finkbeiner, Regala, Hochstatter, Costa, Fairley, Stevens, Oke and Rasmussen.

Brief History:

Committee Activity:  Education:  2/28/01.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON EDUCATION

Staff:  Kelly Simpson (786‑7403)

Background:  Under current law, students must study both the United States Constitution and the Washington State Constitution in order to graduate from public and private high schools.  Additionally, the State Board of Education's minimum high school graduation requirements include 2 2 credits of social studies, included in which are the requirements to study the two constitutions.  Finally, public schools must offer a one semester course in Washington State history and government at least once during grades 1-6 and then again during grades 7-12.  

Summary of Bill:  Schools must conduct a civic education day once in every odd-numbered year.  The purpose of the civic education day is to educate students about the concepts of government and representative democracy.  The civic education day must at least include (1) a school-wide assembly to hear from an elected official and (2) voter registration information. 

Appropriation:  None.

Fiscal Note:  Not requested.

Effective Date:  The bill takes effect on September 1, 2001.