SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 6295

As of January 18, 2002

Title:  An act relating to access to education.

Brief Description:  Enhancing access to public education.

Sponsors:  Senators Jacobsen, Kohl‑Welles and McAuliffe.

Brief History:

Committee Activity:  Judiciary:  1/21/02.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON JUDICIARY

Staff:  Dick Armstrong (786‑7460)

Background:  On November 3, 1998, Initiative 200 was approved by the voters at the general election.  The initiative provides that the government is prohibited from discriminating or granting preferential treatment based on race, sex, color, ethnic or national origin in public employment, education and contracting.  The act does not apply to otherwise lawful classifications based on sexual privacy, medical or psychological treatment, undercover law enforcement, theatrical casting, separate athletic teams, or actions necessary to maintain federally-funded programs.

It has been suggested that the provisions of the initiative should not apply to public colleges and school districts in order to allow the public education system greater flexibility in addressing the needs of all students.

Summary of Bill:  Public colleges and universities, community colleges, and school districts are not subject to the provisions of Initiative 200.

Appropriation:  None.

Fiscal Note:  Not requested.

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