HB 1079.E - DIGEST

(DIGEST AS ENACTED)

Includes any person who has completed the full senior year of high school and obtained a high school diploma, both at a Washington public high school or private high school approved under chapter 28A.195 RCW, or a person who has received the equivalent of a diploma; who has lived in Washington for at least three years immediately prior to receiving the diploma or its equivalent; who has continuously lived in the state of Washington after receiving the diploma or its equivalent and until such time as the individual is admitted to an institution of higher education under this act; and who provides to the institution an affidavit indicating that the individual will file an application to become a permanent resident at the earliest opportunity the individual is eligible to do so and a willingness to engage in any other activities necessary to acquire citizenship, including but not limited to citizenship or civics review courses.

Declares an intent to ensure that students who receive a diploma from a Washington state high school or receive the equivalent of a diploma in Washington state and who have lived in Washington for at least three years prior to receiving their diploma or its equivalent are eligible for in-state tuition rates when they enroll in a public institution of higher education in Washington state.

VETO MESSAGE ON HB 1079

May 7, 2003

To the Honorable Speaker and Members,

The House of Representatives of the State of Washington

Ladies and Gentlemen:

I am returning herewith, without my approval as to section 3, Engrossed House Bill No. 1079 entitled:

"AN ACT Relating to resident tuition at institutions of higher education;"

This bill provides that students, who live in Washington for three years prior to receiving a high school diploma or equivalent in Washington, are eligible for in-state tuition rates at public colleges and universities in Washington.

Section 3 would have limited residency status for tuition purposes to students whose families hold work visas, temporary protected status visas, green cards, or who have received amnesty from the federal government. These students are already eligible for resident tuition. The limitations set forth in Section 3 are contrary to the stated intent of the bill.

For these reasons, I have vetoed section 3 of Engrossed House Bill No. 1079.

With the exception of section 3, Engrossed House Bill No. 1079 is approved.

Respectfully submitted,

Gary Locke

Governor