 | WASHINGTON STATE LEGISLATURE | |
| Legislative Digest No. 21 | ||
| FIFTY-NINTH LEGISLATURE | ||
| Tuesday, February 7, 2006 | 30th Day - 2006 Regular Session | |
| HOUSE |
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This publication includes digest and history for bills, joint memorials, joint resolutions, concurrent resolutions, initiatives, and substitutes. Engrossed measures may be republished if the amendment makes a substantive change.
Electronic versions of Legislative Digests are available at http://www.leg.wa.gov/wsladm/billinfo1/digsup.cfm?year=2006.
HB 1735-S2
by House Committee on Economic Development, Agriculture & Trade (originally sponsored by Representatives Hunt, Buck, Williams, Linville, Kenney, Walsh, Wallace, B. Sullivan, Dickerson, McCoy, Chase, Simpson, and Roach)
Exempting limited water storage facilities from permit requirements.
Declares that RCW 90.03.250 and 90.03.370 do not apply to rain barrels, cisterns, and other similar facilities for capturing runoff from roofs, paved areas, and other hard surfaces on a single residential, commercial, or industrial property or public facility.Provides that, in order to qualify for the exemptions created in RCW 90.03.250 and 90.03.370, the owner of a rain barrel, cistern, or other similar water storage facility that has a storage capacity of less than one thousand gallons must intend to put the stored water to beneficial use on the property where the rainwater was collected.Provides that, in order to qualify for the exemptions created in RCW 90.03.250 and 90.03.370, the owner of a rain barrel, cistern, or other similar water storage facility that has a storage capacity of greater than one thousand gallons must intend to put the stored water to beneficial use on the property where the rainwater was collected and manage the water stored in the facility in compliance with rules developed by the department under this act.Directs the department to work with the representatives of a broad group of interested parties, individuals with technical expertise, and proponents of rainwater capture and use systems to adopt rules, consistent with chapter 34.05 RCW, that allow for pilot areas to use rainwater collection and use systems with a capacity greater than one thousand gallons, including one pilot area where the use of rainwater collection and use systems is a proposed means of contributing to storm water runoff control and one pilot area located on an island where ground water and surface water availability is limited due to saltwater intrusion. The intent of the pilot areas is to gauge the feasibility of adopting area-specific permits by rule and the impact of rainwater storage and use facilities on the natural hydrologic system.Requires the department of ecology to report to the appropriate committees of the legislature no later than December 31, 2007, regarding the implementation of this act. After June 1, 2008, the department of ecology shall proceed with permanent rule making to establish exemptions by rule for rainwater systems consistent with this act unless the legislature acts to direct otherwise.
| Feb 1 | EDAT - Majority; 2nd substitute bill be substituted, do pass. | |
| Minority; do not pass. | ||
| Feb 3 | Passed to Rules Committee for second reading. | |
| Referred to Rules 2 Review. | ||
HB 2414-S
by House Committee on Education (originally sponsored by Representatives Haler, Talcott, and McCune)
Regarding local control and flexibility in the state assessment system.
Requires that, before the beginning of the 2006-07 school year, the superintendent of public instruction shall request flexibility from the United States department of education to conduct a pilot project with a limited number of local school districts regarding the academic assessments administered for the purpose of complying with P.L. 107-110, the no child left behind act of 2001. The superintendent shall request the flexibility to pilot, with no more than six school districts and for a specified length of time, an assessment other than the Washington assessment of student learning in grades three, five, six, and eight for reading and mathematics. The purpose of the pilot project is to determine whether a different assessment provides greater local control and flexibility while maintaining the testing standards and continuity of student performance measurement expected by the federal law.Provides that, if the request for flexibility is granted, the superintendent shall revise the Washington state accountability plan required under section 1111 of P.L. 107-110 to incorporate the pilot project into the plan, and school districts participating in the pilot project shall not be required to administer the Washington assessment of student learning in grades three, five, six, and eight in reading and mathematics during the pilot project. At the end of the pilot project, the superintendent shall evaluate whether the assessment under the pilot project can be used on a statewide basis to comply with P.L. 107-110 and shall forward findings and recommendations to the legislature and to the United States department of education.
| Feb 2 | ED - Majority; 1st substitute bill be substituted, do pass. | |
| Feb 3 | Passed to Rules Committee for second reading. | |
HB 2452-S
by House Committee on Judiciary (originally sponsored by Representatives Kessler, Armstrong, Clibborn, Priest, Nixon, Blake, Hunt, Morrell, Grant, Newhouse, Dickerson, Kagi, Ericksen, Ericks, Wood, Upthegrove, Ormsby, Roberts, and O'Brien; by request of Attorney General)
Protecting the news media from being compelled to testify in legal proceedings.
Provides that no judicial, legislative, administrative, or other body with the power to issue a subpoena or other compulsory process may compel the news media to testify, produce, or otherwise disclose: (1) The identity of a source of any news or information or any information that would tend to identify the source where such source has a reasonable expectation of confidentiality; or(2) Any news or information obtained or prepared by the news media in its capacity in gathering, receiving, or processing news or information for potential communication to the public, including, but not limited to, any notes, outtakes, photographs, video or sound tapes, film, or other data of whatever sort in any medium now known or hereafter devised. This does not include physical evidence of a crime.Prescribes exceptions to the prohibition.
| Feb 2 | JUDI - Majority; 1st substitute bill be substituted, do pass. | |
| Minority; without recommendation. | ||
| Feb 3 | Passed to Rules Committee for second reading. | |
HB 2485-S
by House Committee on Education (originally sponsored by Representatives Hunter, Jarrett, Talcott, and Tom)
Making college placement tests available for high school students.
Declares an intent to make college placement tests widely available in high schools and encourage high school students, their parents, and their teachers to use the tests as a tool for planning and preparing for their future.Directs the superintendent of public instruction to reimburse school districts, from funds appropriated for this purpose, for college placement tests that districts annually offer to students in tenth or eleventh grade. Districts shall encourage but may not require students to take the test. A district intending to offer a college placement test under this act shall consult with a local community or technical college or other public institution of higher education in the region before selecting a test.Provides that the college placement tests shall serve to assist students, parents, and teachers in the planning and selection of appropriate high school courses and to gauge student readiness for postsecondary study, including dual enrollment programs. Results of the tests and relevant student, school, and district characteristics shall be compiled by the superintendent of public instruction to permit research and analysis, including analysis using the unique student identifier, and shall be made available to the parents of those students tested. Aggregate results shall be made available to the public and the legislature.
| Feb 1 | ED - Majority; 1st substitute bill be substituted, do pass. | |
| Feb 3 | Referred to Appropriations. | |
HB 2534-S
by House Committee on Transportation (originally sponsored by Representatives Nixon, Rodne, and Woods)
Requiring full disclosure of vehicle taxes and license fees.
Requires each renewal notice to, in addition to the total amount due, itemize the amount of each license fee and excise tax due and indicate for each, which jurisdiction imposed the tax or fee, and for voter approved taxes and/or fees include the term "voter approved" in the description. Such information shall be printed on a postcard style renewal notice that is the same size as the notice provided by the department as of February 2006.
| Feb 2 | TR - Majority; 1st substitute bill be substituted, do pass. | |
HB 2614-S
by House Committee on Commerce & Labor (originally sponsored by Representatives Morrell, Conway, Williams, Blake, Kirby, Eickmeyer, Grant, Wallace, Hankins, Linville, McCoy, Flannigan, Anderson, McIntire, Kenney, Walsh, Hudgins, Holmquist, Condotta, Ormsby, Upthegrove, and Simpson)
Regulating employment decisions based on the consumption of lawful tobacco products.
Declares that it is unlawful for an employer to refuse to hire or to discharge an individual, or otherwise disadvantage an individual, with respect to compensation, terms, conditions, or privileges of employment because the individual engages in the consumption of lawful products off the premises of the employer during nonworking hours, provided the individual complies with applicable laws or policies regulating consumption of lawful products on the premises of the employer during working hours.Declares that it is not unlawful or an unfair employment practice under this act for an employer to refuse to hire, discharge, or otherwise disadvantage an individual with respect to compensation, terms, conditions, or privileges of employment if that decision is based on: (1) The individual's failure to meet job-related standards set by the employer;(2) An employer's legitimate conflict of interest policy reasonably designed to protect the employer's trade secrets, proprietary information, or other proprietary interests;(3) A bona fide occupational qualification or requirement, including qualifications or requirements implemented by the employer to screen for respiratory diseases in occupations where the individual will be exposed to smoke and noxious fumes; or(4) The employer's drug and alcohol free work place program, including those adopted in response to federal requirements.
| Feb 2 | CL - Majority; 1st substitute bill be substituted, do pass. | |
| Minority; do not pass. | ||
| Feb 3 | Passed to Rules Committee for second reading. | |
HB 2754-S2
by House Committee on Appropriations (originally sponsored by Representatives Morrell, Campbell, Green, Haigh, Appleton, Kilmer, Darneille, Cox, Ormsby, Haler, Chase, P. Sullivan, McCoy, Wallace, Sells, Serben, Curtis, Moeller, Blake, Cody, Kenney, Conway, Ericks, Clibborn, Kessler, Simpson, and Linville)
Creating the veterans innovations program.
Finds that: (1) A significant number of Washington citizens answered the call to serve our country in recent military action leaving behind families, community, employment, and education;(2) Many soldiers returning to their families and communities face transition problems in areas such as family reunification, employment, education, and health;(3) While the Washington state department of veterans affairs has provided services to many returning soldiers, a significant number have returned to families and communities without continuing ties to the military department or veterans' administration, but still in need of help; and(4) Our state needs to honor and serve those who have protected our security and safety.Creates in the department a veterans innovations program, which consists of the defenders' fund and the competitive grant program. The purpose of the veterans innovations program is to provide crisis and emergency relief and education, training, and employment assistance to veterans and their families in their communities.Creates the defenders' fund to provide assistance to members of the Washington national guard and reservists who served in Operation Enduring Freedom, Operation Iraqi Freedom, or Operation Noble Eagle, and who are experiencing financial hardships in employment, education, housing, and health care due to the significant period of time away from home serving our country. The program shall be administered by the department. Eligibility determinations shall be made by the department. Eligible veterans may receive a one-time grant of no more than five hundred dollars.Creates the competitive grant program to fund innovative initiatives to provide crisis and emergency relief, education, training, and employment assistance to veterans and their families in their communities.
| Feb 4 | APP - Majority; 2nd substitute bill be substituted, do pass. | |
| Feb 6 | Placed on second reading. | |
HB 2939-S2
by House Committee on Appropriations (originally sponsored by Representatives Grant, Dunshee, Linville, Kessler, Upthegrove, Kilmer, Ericks, Hasegawa, P. Sullivan, Santos, Green, Springer, Conway, Simpson, and Hudgins)
Establishing the energy freedom program.
Declares an intent to reduce Washington's dependence on imported oil, expand renewable fuel production and use in Washington, improve use of renewable energy and energy efficiency measures, and promote sustainable rural economic development by creating new jobs and stimulating business and economic activity in local communities across Washington.Provides that to accomplish this, the energy freedom program is established to stimulate strategic investment in facilities, infrastructure, technologies, and research and development that will advance Washington's move toward energy independence.
| Feb 4 | APP - Majority; 2nd substitute bill be substituted, do pass. | |
| Minority; do not pass. | ||
| Feb 6 | Referred to Capital Budget. | |
HB 2958-S
by House Committee on Natural Resources, Ecology & Parks (originally sponsored by Representatives B. Sullivan, Buck, Kessler, Orcutt, Blake, Kretz, Hunt, Chandler, Upthegrove, and Dickerson)
Penalizing persons who violate rules concerning the use of nontoxic shot.
Provides that, in addition to the penalties set forth in this act, if a person other than a youth as defined in RCW 77.08.010 for hunting purposes, violates a rule adopted by the commission under the authority of Title 77 RCW that requires the use of nontoxic shot, upon conviction: (1) The court shall require a payment of one thousand dollars as a criminal wildlife penalty assessment that must be paid to the clerk of the court and distributed to the state treasurer for deposit in the fish and wildlife enforcement reward account. The criminal wildlife penalty assessment must be imposed regardless of and in addition to any sentence, fine, or costs imposed for violating this act. The criminal wildlife penalty assessment must be included by the court in any pronouncement of sentence and may not be suspended, waived, modified, or deferred in any respect; and(2) The department shall revoke the hunting license of the person and order a suspension of small game hunting privileges for two years.
| Feb 2 | NREP - Majority; 1st substitute bill be substituted, do pass. | |
| Feb 3 | Passed to Rules Committee for second reading. | |
HB 2984-S
by House Committee on Local Government (originally sponsored by Representatives Springer, Jarrett, Simpson, Clibborn, B. Sullivan, Hasegawa, Sells, P. Sullivan, Moeller, Santos, and Green)
Authorizing cities, towns, and counties to implement affordable housing incentive programs.
Encourages cities, towns, and counties to enact or expand affordable housing incentive programs, including density bonuses and other incentives, to increase the availability of low-income housing for renter and owner occupancy located in largely market rate housing developments throughout the community consistent with local needs and adopted comprehensive plans. While this act provides minimum standards for those cities, towns, and counties choosing to implement or expand upon an affordable housing incentive program, cities, towns, and counties are encouraged to enact programs that address local circumstances and conditions while contributing to the statewide need for additional low-income housing.
| Feb 2 | LG - Majority; 1st substitute bill be substituted, do pass. | |
| Minority; do not pass. | ||
| Feb 3 | Passed to Rules Committee for second reading. | |
HB 3020-S
by House Committee on Transportation (originally sponsored by Representatives Lovick, Hankins, Morrell, and Kagi; by request of Department of Transportation)
Authorizing the use of automated traffic safety cameras in state highway work zones.
Authorizes the use of automated traffic safety cameras in state highway work zones.Provides that the fine issued for state roadway construction zone infractions must be one hundred thirty-seven dollars.
| Feb 2 | TR - Majority; 1st substitute bill be substituted, do pass. | |
| Minority; do not pass. | ||
HB 3052-S
by House Committee on Transportation (originally sponsored by Representatives Clibborn, Wallace, Jarrett, and Ericks)
Introducing federal law preemption in regulating train speeds.
Amends RCW 81.48.030 and 81.48.040 relating to the jurisdiction of regulating train speeds.
| Feb 2 | TR - Majority; 1st substitute bill be substituted, do pass. | |
HB 3089-S
by House Committee on Transportation (originally sponsored by Representatives Murray, Clibborn, Woods, Simpson, and Linville; by request of Department of Transportation)
Revising commute trip reduction provisions.
Revises commute trip reduction provisions.
| Feb 3 | TR - Majority; 1st substitute bill be substituted, do pass. | |
HB 3093-S
by House Committee on Transportation (originally sponsored by Representatives Clibborn, Curtis, Simpson, Darneille, Schual-Berke, Dickerson, and Dunn)
Allowing physician assistants to determine disability for special parking privileges.
Authorizes physician assistants to determine disability for special parking privileges.
| Feb 2 | TR - Majority; 1st substitute bill be substituted, do pass. | |
HB 3098-S
by House Committee on Education (originally sponsored by Representatives McDermott, Talcott, and Quall)
Transferring duties of the reconstituted state board of education.
Transfers duties of the reconstituted state board of education.Declares that the purpose of this act is to address the remaining statutory responsibilities of the state board of education held before 2005. The legislature finds that some duties should be retained with the reconstituted board; many duties should be transferred to other agencies or organizations, primarily but not exclusively to the superintendent of public instruction; and some duties should be repealed. This act also corrects statutes to implement fully the transfer of responsibilities authorized in 2005.
| Feb 1 | ED - Majority; 1st substitute bill be substituted, do pass. | |
| Feb 3 | Referred to Capital Budget. | |
| Feb 6 | CB - Executive action taken by committee. | |
HB 3105-S
by House Committee on Natural Resources, Ecology & Parks (originally sponsored by Representatives Hunt and Williams)
Concerning ORV and all-terrain vehicle noise.
Lowers the maximum decibel level for off-road vehicles from 105 decibels to 96 decibels.Creates a new traffic infraction for riding off-road vehicles in a repetitive manner in a residential setting.
| Feb 2 | NREP - Majority; 1st substitute bill be substituted, do pass. | |
| Minority; do not pass. | ||
| Feb 3 | Referred to Appropriations. | |
HB 3162-S
by House Committee on Local Government (originally sponsored by Representatives Simpson and Schindler)
Adjusting contracting limits for water-sewer districts.
Amends RCW 57.08.050 to adjust contracting limits for water-sewer districts.
| Feb 2 | LG - Majority; 1st substitute bill be substituted, do pass. | |
| Minority; do not pass. | ||
| Feb 3 | Passed to Rules Committee for second reading. | |
HB 3163-S
by House Committee on Local Government (originally sponsored by Representatives Simpson, Schindler, Chase, and Upthegrove)
Including special districts in growth management planning.
Revises provisions relating to the role of fire protection districts and water-sewer districts in growth management planning.
| Feb 2 | LG - Majority; 1st substitute bill be substituted, do pass. | |
| Feb 3 | Passed to Rules Committee for second reading. | |
HB 3304
by Representatives Grant, Linville, Pettigrew, P. Sullivan, Kessler, Clibborn, Wallace, McCoy, Kilmer, Sells, Green, and Morrell
Creating the energy freedom program.
Finds it is in the public interest to reduce Washington's dependence on imported oil, expand renewable fuel production and use in Washington, conserve energy, improve use of renewable energy and energy efficiency measures, and promote sustainable rural economic development by creating new jobs and stimulating business and economic activity in local communities across Washington.Declares that, to accomplish this, the energy freedom program is established to stimulate strategic investment in facilities, infrastructure, technologies, and research and development that will advance Washington's move toward energy independence. It is the intent of the legislature to appropriate funds for this strategic investment in the fiscal years ending June 30, 2007, June 30, 2008, June 30, 2009, and June 30, 2010.Provides that, beginning July 1, 2006, for four fiscal years through June 30, 2010, the state treasurer shall transfer the sum of twenty-five million dollars each fiscal year from the state general fund to the energy freedom account established in this act, for a total of one hundred million dollars.Appropriates the sum of twenty-five million dollars, or as much thereof as may be necessary, for the biennium ending June 30, 2007, from the energy freedom account to the department of community, trade, and economic development for the purposes of this act.
| Feb 6 | First reading, referred to Capital Budget. | |
HB 3305
by Representatives Kilmer, Appleton, and Green
Providing relief to Tacoma Narrows bridge users.
Provides that, within five days of each deferred sales and use tax payment the state treasurer shall transfer an amount equal to the sales tax payment from the state general fund to the Tacoma Narrows toll bridge account.
| Feb 6 | First reading, referred to Appropriations. | |
HJM 4041
by Representatives O'Brien, Rodne, Lovick, Pearson, Miloscia, Sells, Clements, Strow, Hasegawa, Alexander, Darneille, Kirby, Santos, Kilmer, Chase, McDonald, Green, and Morrell
Recognizing the value of older people.
Recognizes the value of older people.
| Feb 6 | First reading, referred to Children & Family Services. | |
SB 6469-S
by Senate Committee on Health & Long-Term Care (originally sponsored by Senators Thibaudeau, Keiser, Haugen, Franklin, Brown, Jacobsen, McAuliffe, Spanel, Kline, and Kohl-Welles)
Creating a blue ribbon commission on health care cost and access.
Requires that, by December 1, 2006, the blue ribbon commission on health care cost and access shall develop a sustainable five-year plan to substantially improve access to affordable health care for all Washington residents. The plan shall: (1) Be based on explicit, measurable goals reflecting a realistic assessment of the current status of Washington's health care system, the medical treatment and services to which all Washington residents should have access, and the financial and other resources available to provide them;(2) Identify the most significant factors contributing to increasingly inaccessible and unaffordable health care and health care insurance in Washington state;(3) Include a list of strategies prioritized by their likelihood to cost-effectively address these factors and achieve the identified goals; (4) Identify what must be done, by whom, and by when to assure implementation of each of the listed strategies, including any necessary changes in statute or administrative rule;(5) Estimate the cost to the responsible party of implementing the listed strategies;(6) Build a foundation for subsequent long-term plans to assure on-going access for all Washington residents to affordable health care.Provides that the act shall be null and void if appropriations are not approved.
| Feb 2 | HEA - Majority; 1st substitute bill be substituted, do pass. | |
| Minority; do not pass. | ||
| Minority; without recommendation. | ||
| And refer to Ways & Means. | ||
| Referred to Ways & Means. | ||
SB 6470-S
by Senate Committee on International Trade & Economic Development (originally sponsored by Senators Shin, Deccio, Schmidt, Sheldon, Jacobsen, Rasmussen, and Mulliken)
Creating Washington manufacturing services in statute.
Declares an intent that the state increase its support for delivery of modernization services to small and midsize manufacturers and leverage federal and private resources devoted to such efforts. It is the further intent of the legislature that the state facilitate the delivery of modernization services and: (1) Encourage small and midsize firms to aggregate their demand for training and other modernization services, thus driving down the cost to the individual firm and securing more effective services; and(2) Encourage large firms to support training consortia among their suppliers and validate the importance of high performance work organization and workplace learning as desirable supplier practices.Organizes Washington manufacturing services as a private, nonprofit corporation in accordance with chapter 24.03 RCW and this act. The mission of the center is to operate a modernization extension system, coordinate a network of public and private modernization resources, and stimulate the competitiveness of small and midsize manufacturers in Washington.
| Feb 2 | ITED - Majority; 1st substitute bill be substituted, do pass. | |
| Minority; do not pass. | ||
| Passed to Rules Committee for second reading. | ||
SB 6482-S
by Senate Committee on Water, Energy & Environment (originally sponsored by Senators Honeyford, Mulliken, Schoesler, Finkbeiner, Esser, and Delvin)
Providing funds for energy assistance.
Provides funds for energy assistance.
| Feb 1 | WEE - Majority; 1st substitute bill be substituted, do pass. | |
| And refer to Ways & Means. | ||
| Feb 2 | Referred to Ways & Means. | |
SB 6487-S
by Senate Committee on Early Learning, K-12 & Higher Education (originally sponsored by Senators Schoesler, Rasmussen, Roach, Morton, Schmidt, Mulliken, Carrell, Stevens, Doumit, Delvin, Benson, Esser, Johnson, Deccio, Shin, Jacobsen, Regala, Hargrove, Zarelli, Honeyford, McAuliffe, and Berkey)
Prohibiting false academic credentials.
Declares that it is unlawful for a person to: (1) Grant or award a false academic credential or offer to grant or award a false academic credential in violation of this act;(2) Represent that a credit earned or granted by the person, in violation of this act, can be applied toward a credential offered by another person; or(3) Solicit another person to seek a credential or to earn a credit that is offered in violation of this act.Provides that issuing a false academic credential is a class C felony.Provides that knowingly using a false academic credential is a class C felony.
| Feb 2 | EKHE - Majority; 1st substitute bill be substituted, do pass. | |
| Passed to Rules Committee for second reading. | ||
SB 6490-S
by Senate Committee on Judiciary (originally sponsored by Senators Rasmussen and Kline)
Specifying additional mitigating circumstances allowing departures from sentencing guidelines.
Specifies additional mitigating circumstances allowing departures from sentencing guidelines.
| Feb 1 | JUD - Majority; 1st substitute bill be substituted, do pass. | |
| Feb 2 | Passed to Rules Committee for second reading. | |
SB 6495-S
by Senate Committee on Judiciary (originally sponsored by Senators Kline, Johnson, Brandland, and Oke)
Assigning a seriousness level to selected unranked felonies.
Assigns a seriousness level to selected unranked felonies.
| Feb 1 | JUD - Majority; 1st substitute bill be substituted, do pass. | |
| Feb 2 | On motion, referred to Ways & Means. | |
SB 6503-S
by Senate Committee on Water, Energy & Environment (originally sponsored by Senators Finkbeiner, Poulsen, Morton, Esser, Jacobsen, Kohl-Welles, Schmidt, Parlette, Rasmussen, Kline, and Keiser)
Providing tax incentives for the generation of electricity using renewable resources.
Provides tax incentives for the generation of electricity using renewable resources.
| Feb 1 | WEE - Majority; 1st substitute bill be substituted, do pass. | |
| And refer to Ways & Means. | ||
| Feb 2 | Referred to Ways & Means. | |
SB 6507-S
by Senate Committee on Water, Energy & Environment (originally sponsored by Senators Honeyford, Poulsen, Morton, and Fraser)
Concerning watershed management partnerships.
Finds that local governments, special districts, and utilities that cooperate in watershed management partnerships are acting in the public interest and in a manner that is intended to maintain healthy watershed function while sustaining growing populations and maximum beneficial use of water in the watershed over time. Therefore, it is the intent of this act to provide additional funding authority to assist watershed management partnerships with the implementation of local watershed plans.
| Feb 1 | WEE - Majority; 1st substitute bill be substituted, do pass. | |
| Feb 2 | Passed to Rules Committee for second reading. | |
SB 6508-S
by Senate Committee on Water, Energy & Environment (originally sponsored by Senators Rasmussen, Poulsen, Kline, McCaslin, Brown, Oke, Schmidt, Swecker, Finkbeiner, and Kohl-Welles; by request of Governor Gregoire)
Developing minimum renewable fuel content requirements and fuel quality standards in an alternative fuels market.
Prescribes minimum renewable fuel content requirements and fuel quality standards in an alternative fuels market.
| Feb 1 | WEE - Majority; 1st substitute bill be substituted, do pass. | |
| Minority; do not pass. | ||
| Minority; without recommendation. | ||
| Feb 2 | Passed to Rules Committee for second reading. | |
SB 6513-S
by Senate Committee on Water, Energy & Environment (originally sponsored by Senators Fraser, Poulsen, Pridemore, Regala, Rockefeller, Kohl-Welles, and Kline)
Requiring biomonitoring as an element of the environmental health tracking program.
Requires biomonitoring as an element of the environmental health tracking program.Provides that, by September 30, 2006, the department of health, in consultation with the department of ecology and local health jurisdictions, shall provide recommendations to the governor and the appropriate committees of the senate and house of representatives for funding the biomonitoring program. The recommendations shall provide a proposed phase-in of the top ten highest priorities identified by the department of health's 2003 biomonitoring plan, and shall include recommendations for sharing of costs among federal, state, local, and nongovernmental entities. The department of health's implementation recommendations shall include the objective of integrating with and complementing nationwide monitoring programs.Appropriates the sum of fifty thousand dollars, or as much thereof as may be necessary, for the biennium ending June 30, 2007, from the state toxics control account to the department of health for the purposes of this act.
| Feb 1 | WEE - Majority; 1st substitute bill be substituted, do pass. | |
| Minority; do not pass. | ||
| Minority; without recommendation. | ||
| And refer to Ways & Means. | ||
| Feb 2 | Referred to Ways & Means. | |
SB 6514-S
by Senate Committee on Water, Energy & Environment (originally sponsored by Senators Fraser, Poulsen, Pridemore, Regala, Rockefeller, Kohl-Welles, Kline, and Keiser)
Regarding biodiesel mandates for state agencies.
Provides that, effective June 1, 2009, all state agencies are required to use a minimum of twenty percent biodiesel as compared to total volume of all diesel purchases made by the agency for the operation of the agency's diesel-powered vehicles and equipment.Provides that the department of general administration must assist state agencies seeking to meet the biodiesel fuel mandates in RCW 43.19.642 by coordinating the purchase and delivery of biodiesel if requested by any state agency. The department may use long-term contracts of up to ten years to secure a sufficient and stable supply of biodiesel for use by state agencies.Requires the department of general administration to coordinate a biodiesel technical assistance team, including representatives from the department of agriculture, the department of ecology, the department of community, trade, and economic development's energy policy division, and Washington State University's energy program. The team shall provide assistance to fleet managers and recommend best management practices concerning the use of biodiesel.
| Feb 1 | WEE - Majority; 1st substitute bill be substituted, do pass. | |
| Minority; do not pass. | ||
| Minority; without recommendation. | ||
| Feb 2 | Passed to Rules Committee for second reading. | |
SB 6516-S
by Senate Committee on Water, Energy & Environment (originally sponsored by Senators Fraser, Mulliken, Pridemore, Morton, Poulsen, Rockefeller, Regala, Benton, Rasmussen, Kline, and Keiser)
Providing sales and use tax exemptions to encourage the use of alternative fuels.
Provides sales and use tax exemptions to encourage the use of alternative fuels.
| Feb 1 | WEE - Majority; 1st substitute bill be substituted, do pass. | |
| Feb 2 | Passed to Rules Committee for second reading. | |
SB 6518-S
by Senate Committee on Water, Energy & Environment (originally sponsored by Senators Fraser, Mulliken, Poulsen, Honeyford, Pridemore, Regala, Kline, and Keiser)
Modifying state energy policy.
Provides that, by September 1, 2009, each state agency is encouraged to reduce its electrical and heating consumption by fifteen percent from fiscal year 2005, using all practicable, cost-effective means available, including energy efficiency programs and the use of on-site renewable resources. The department of general administration, in cooperation with the state energy office, shall develop standards and formulas to assist agencies in meeting this goal.Provides that, by September 1st of each year, each state agency shall report to the department of general administration its electrical and heating reduction efforts for the previous fiscal year. By December 31st of each year, the department shall summarize the reports and report to the appropriate committees of the legislature. The summary shall include details on how each agency was able to reduce its electrical and heating consumption.
| Feb 1 | WEE - Majority; 1st substitute bill be substituted, do pass. | |
| Feb 2 | Passed to Rules Committee for second reading. | |
SB 6520-S
by Senate Committee on Financial Institutions, Housing & Consumer Protection (originally sponsored by Senators Benton, Fairley, Oke, Stevens, Prentice, and Spanel)
Regulating cashing checks.
Requires a payor financial institution to pay a check drawn on it against an account with a sufficient balance at par, without regard to whether the payee holds an account at the financial institution. "Financial institution" means any institution with an office in the state of Washington upon which a check is drawn, regardless of where the account or account holder may be located, and includes all institutions defined under RCW 30.22.040(12).Does not prohibit a financial institution from requiring commercially reasonable verification of the payee's identity before settlement of the check.Provides that, if a payor financial institution refuses to pay a check drawn against an account with a sufficient balance at par, the check is dishonored, as provided for in RCW 62A.3-502.Provides that if a payor financial institution refuses to pay a check drawn against an account with a sufficient balance at par, due to any fees that the financial institution wishes to deduct from the funds to be received by the payee, the drawer of the check and payor financial institution are jointly and severally liable to the payee for the face amount of the check, any fees the financial institution wishes to deduct, additional damages in the sum of five hundred dollars, and interest on all these amounts at the rate of twelve percent per annum from the date of dishonor.
| Feb 2 | FHC - Majority; 1st substitute bill be substituted, do pass. | |
| Minority; without recommendation. | ||
| Passed to Rules Committee for second reading. | ||
SB 6524-S
by Senate Committee on Water, Energy & Environment (originally sponsored by Senators Rasmussen, Morton, Poulsen, Rockefeller, Honeyford, and Benton)
Providing incentives for converting methane gas to a useable fuel.
Provides incentives for converting methane gas to a useable fuel.
| Feb 1 | WEE - Majority; 1st substitute bill be substituted, do pass. | |
| And refer to Ways & Means. | ||
| Feb 2 | Referred to Ways & Means. | |
SB 6532-S
by Senate Committee on Early Learning, K-12 & Higher Education (originally sponsored by Senators Delvin, Schoesler, Morton, and Jacobsen)
Regarding Washington's academic assessment system.
Requires the superintendent of public instruction to request the United States department of education to provide flexibility to local school districts in selecting the assessments administered in grades three, five, six, and eight in reading and mathematics as required by P.L. 107-110. The superintendent shall request the flexibility to incorporate a combination of statewide and locally selected assessments to provide options for school district boards of directors to use in grades three, five, six, and eight.Provides that, in developing the proposal to request flexibility, the superintendent of public instruction shall work with local school directors, school districts, school administrators, teachers, principals, other school staff, and parents.Provides that, after receiving approval from the United States department of education, the superintendent of public instruction shall revise the Washington state accountability plan required under section 1111 of P.L. 107-110, the no child left behind act of 2001, to incorporate the flexibility into the plan.Directs the superintendent of public instruction to submit the revised Washington state accountability plan to the education committees of the legislature for review no later than the 2007 legislative session.
| Feb 2 | EKHE - Majority; 1st substitute bill be substituted, do pass. | |
| Passed to Rules Committee for second reading. | ||
SB 6566-S
by Senate Committee on Transportation (originally sponsored by Senators Eide, Esser, Swecker, Haugen, Prentice, and McAuliffe; by request of Department of Transportation)
Revising commute trip reduction provisions.
Revises commute trip reduction provisions.
| Feb 1 | TRAN - Majority; 1st substitute bill be substituted, do pass. | |
| Minority; do not pass. | ||
| Feb 2 | Passed to Rules Committee for second reading. | |
SB 6603-S
by Senate Committee on Natural Resources, Ocean & Recreation (originally sponsored by Senators Doumit, Morton, and Parlette)
Establishing the wildfire prevention and protection work group.
Requires the wildfire prevention and protection work group to review existing fire studies conducted by or for the department of natural resources, the joint legislative audit and review committee, and other organizations.Requires the wildfire prevention and protection work group to report its findings and recommendations in the form of draft legislation to the legislature by December 1, 2006.Appropriates the sum of thirty-five thousand dollars, or as much thereof as may be necessary, for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2007, from the general fund to the senate for the travel expenses of the wildfire prevention and protection work group.
| Feb 2 | NROR - Majority; 1st substitute bill be substituted, do pass. | |
| Passed to Rules Committee for second reading. | ||
SB 6609-S
by Senate Committee on Agriculture & Rural Economic Development (originally sponsored by Senators Rasmussen, Delvin, Sheldon, Schoesler, Morton, Mulliken, Roach, and Shin)
Exempting wholesale sales of raw milk for processing from business and occupation tax.
Exempts wholesale sales of bulk raw milk from business and occupation tax.
| Feb 1 | ARED - Majority; 1st substitute bill be substituted, do pass. | |
| And refer to Ways & Means. | ||
| Feb 2 | Referred to Ways & Means. | |
SB 6610-S
by Senate Committee on International Trade & Economic Development (originally sponsored by Senators Oke, Rockefeller, Shin, Pflug, and Sheldon)
Promoting underwater viewing.
Finds that Puget Sound and the other waters of Washington state contain an abundance of varied and unique marine life and other natural attractions that are of interest to divers and other recreationalists from all over the world.Finds that in addition to the usual benefits from tourism, the promotion of underwater viewing tourism in the waters of Washington state will enhance efforts to protect Puget Sound by assisting in educating residents and nonresidents as to the value of the marine environment.Finds that Washington state's efforts to promote nature-based tourism should include the natural wonder of underwater Washington.Finds that, in several locations throughout the world, the use of ships as dive attractions has helped promote underwater viewing tourism. To the extent funds are made available, the department of fish and wildlife shall commission an independent study on the use of ships as dive attractions. The department of fish and wildlife, the department of natural resources, the state parks and recreation commission, the department of ecology, and the department of community, trade, and economic development shall establish a work group on the use of ships as dive attractions to delineate elements of this study. Among the topics that the study should address are: (1) Assessing the availability of appropriate locations in Puget Sound at the appropriate depths after the elimination of existing areas reserved for shipping lanes, shellfish beds, sensitive areas, areas with water quality concerns that would preclude placement of a vessel, commercial fishing areas, and areas with restrictions due to national security concerns or national defense activity;(2) What are the possible long-term environmental consequences, including those to habitat and marine life, of the use of ships as dive attractions, and what steps would need to be taken prior to the state allowing the sinking of a ship to be used as a dive attraction. At a minimum, this should include an assessment of: (a) Water quality impacts and the residual impacts to the underlying land, over time, as the vessel breaks down, such as accumulation of contaminants in the sediment; (b) potential impacts that sinking a ship would have on predation of juvenile salmonid and other state or federally listed species;(3) What are the possible long-term economic consequences and what are the costs, both capital and operating, of the use of ships as dive attractions, including the costs of cleaning a ship to appropriate environmental standards;(4) What funding would need to be secured prior to the state allowing the sinking of a ship to be used as a dive attraction and what sources of funding are, or can be made, available for this purpose; and(5) What are the legal liabilities and exposures for the state in using ships as dive attractions.Provides that, once the study is complete, the work group shall develop final recommendations based on its findings, to be submitted to the appropriate committees of the legislature no later than December 15, 2007.
| Feb 2 | ITED - Majority; 1st substitute bill be substituted, do pass. | |
| And refer to Ways & Means. | ||
| Referred to Ways & Means. | ||
SB 6617-S
by Senate Committee on Agriculture & Rural Economic Development (originally sponsored by Senators Haugen and Rasmussen)
Regarding the contents of farm plans prepared by conservation districts.
Requires conservation districts, before developing a farm plan, to inform the landowner or operator in writing of the types of information that is subject to disclosure to the public under chapter 42.56 RCW. Before completion of the final draft of a farm plan, the district shall send the final draft farm plan to the requesting landowner or operator for verification of the information. The final farm plan shall not be disclosed by the conservation district until the requesting owner or operator confirms the information in the farm plan and a signed copy of the farm plan is received by the conservation district.
| Feb 1 | ARED - Majority; 1st substitute bill be substituted, do pass. | |
| Feb 2 | Passed to Rules Committee for second reading. | |
| Placed on second reading by Rules Committee. | ||
SB 6621-S
by Senate Committee on International Trade & Economic Development (originally sponsored by Senators Kohl-Welles, Deccio, and Shin)
Authorizing a business and occupation tax exemption for amounts received for the promotion of conventions and tourism.
Allows tax deductions for nonprofit convention and tourism promotion corporations.
| Feb 2 | ITED - Majority; 1st substitute bill be substituted, do pass. | |
| Minority; do not pass. | ||
| Minority; without recommendation. | ||
| And refer to Ways & Means. | ||
| Referred to Ways & Means. | ||
SB 6622-S
by Senate Committee on Health & Long-Term Care (originally sponsored by Senators Keiser and Kline)
Allowing limited reporting of vulnerable adult abuse investigation results.
Provides that, upon request, the department shall disclose the fact that a report was received and the status of any investigation, unless the department has a reason to believe disclosing such information may compromise the investigation or the safety or well-being of a vulnerable adult.Provides that, upon request, the department shall provide a written report of the outcome of the completed investigation to an agency, program, or provider serving a vulnerable adult. The name of the alleged perpetrator may be disclosed. The report on the outcome of an investigation must include, at a minimum, a determination by the department as to whether or not an incident of abuse, neglect, abandonment, or financial exploitation has occurred. The department shall not disclose the identity of the person making the report to the department or any witness without such individual's written permission.Provides that upon request of a legislator or a state agency as defined in RCW 42.17.020 serving vulnerable adults or children, the department will disclose the results of an investigation under chapter 74.34.RCW. In cases where the department determines that an incident of abuse, abandonment, neglect, or financial exploitation is founded, the requestor shall be informed whether the finding is initial, subject to the alleged perpetrator's right to an administrative appeal, or final, following the administrative appeal process.Directs the department to establish by rule a state registry that contains identifying information about individuals investigated under this chapter found to have abused, abandoned, neglected, or financially exploited a vulnerable adult. Information provided under this chapter is limited to postdue process findings made by the department under this chapter. Contingent on resources, the department shall make readily available to the public a means to query the state registry to determine if an individual has been found by the department to have abused, abandoned, neglected, or financially exploited a vulnerable adult.Repeals RCW 74.34.068.
| Feb 1 | HEA - Majority; 1st substitute bill be substituted, do pass. | |
| And refer to Ways & Means. | ||
| Feb 2 | Referred to Ways & Means. | |
SB 6625-S
by Senate Committee on Natural Resources, Ocean & Recreation (originally sponsored by Senators Parlette and Fraser)
Concerning the management of public lands.
Establishes the habitat and recreation lands coordinating group.Provides that, to ensure timely completion of the initial duties assigned to the habitat and recreation lands coordinating group, quarterly progress reports to either the office of financial management or the director are required.Requires the habitat and recreation lands coordinating group to: (1) Develop language to amend agency land acquisition, management, and disposal plans and policies to help provide for statewide coordination of habitat and recreation land acquisitions and disposals;(2) Develop standards for producing an interagency, statewide biennial forecast of habitat and recreation land acquisitions and disposals;(3) Establish procedures for submitting the biennial acquisition and disposal plans;(4) Develop and convene an annual forum for agencies to coordinate their near-term acquisition and disposal plans;(5) Develop a recommended standard for interagency geographic information system-based documentation of habitat and recreation lands;(6) Standardize acquisition and disposal recordkeeping;(7) Identify a preferred process for centralizing acquisition data;(8) Develop an approach for monitoring the success of acquisitions;(9) Identify and commence a dialogue with key state and federal partners to develop an inventory of potential public lands for transfer into habitat and recreation land management status;(10) Review all habitat conservation plans to achieve uniformity and save costs.
| Feb 2 | NROR - Majority; 1st substitute bill be substituted, do pass. | |
| Passed to Rules Committee for second reading. | ||
SB 6668-S
by Senate Committee on Government Operations & Elections (originally sponsored by Senators Kastama, Roach, Fairley, and Honeyford; by request of Secretary of State)
Updating public records provisions.
Establishes the division of archives and records management in the office of the secretary of state to ensure the proper management and safeguarding of public records. All public records remain the property of the state of Washington. Public records must be delivered by outgoing officials and employees to their successors and must be retained, preserved, stored, transferred, destroyed, or disposed of in accordance with chapter 40.14 RCW. The state archivist will administer the division and must have reasonable access to all public records, wherever kept, for the purposes of information, surveying, or cataloging.Provides that public records shall not be disposed of or destroyed until the expiration of applicable retention periods on records retention schedules approved by the state or local records committee. Unless otherwise provided by state or federal law, rule, or regulation, retention periods approved for records series that serve as primary documentation of official actions, transactions, contracts, or agreements must be at least six years.Declares that nothing in chapter 40.14 RCW prohibits a legislator or legislative employee from contributing his or her personal papers to any private library, public library, or the state archives. The state archivist is authorized to receive papers of legislators and legislative employees and is directed to encourage the donation of such personal papers to the state. The state archivist is authorized to establish such guidelines and procedures for the collection of personal papers and correspondence relating to the legislature as the archivist sees fit. Legislators and legislative employees are encouraged to contribute their personal papers to the state for preservation.Declares that it shall be the duty of the chief clerk of the house of representatives and the secretary of the senate to advise the party caucuses in each house concerning the necessity to keep public records. The state archivist or his or her representative shall work with the chief clerk and secretary to provide information and instructions on the best method for keeping legislative records.Repeals provisions of chapter 40.14 RCW.
| Feb 1 | GO - Majority; 1st substitute bill be substituted, do pass. | |
| Minority; without recommendation. | ||
| Feb 2 | Passed to Rules Committee for second reading. | |
SB 6695-S
by Senate Committee on Early Learning, K-12 & Higher Education (originally sponsored by Senators Schmidt, McAuliffe, Kohl-Welles, Rasmussen, and Oke)
Regarding tuition waivers for veterans and national guard members.
Amends RCW 28B.15.621 regarding tuition waivers for veterans and national guard members.
| Feb 2 | EKHE - Majority; 1st substitute bill be substituted, do pass. | |
| Passed to Rules Committee for second reading. | ||
SB 6699-S
by Senate Committee on Early Learning, K-12 & Higher Education (originally sponsored by Senators Pridemore, Schmidt, Zarelli, McAuliffe, Spanel, and Delvin)
Concerning cost savings on course materials for students at state universities, regional universities, and The Evergreen State College.
Declares an intent to give students more choices for purchasing educational materials and to encourage faculty and staff to work closely with bookstores and publishers to implement the least costly option without sacrificing educational content and to provide maximum cost savings to students.
| Feb 2 | EKHE - Majority; 1st substitute bill be substituted, do pass. | |
| Passed to Rules Committee for second reading. | ||
SB 6711-S
by Senate Committee on International Trade & Economic Development (originally sponsored by Senators Eide, Brown, Fairley, and McAuliffe)
Establishing a statewide online business training and entrepreneurial curriculum.
Requires the small business development center to: (1) Establish an entrepreneurial and small business development online curriculum;(2) Develop the curriculum course content in coordination with: The department of community, trade, and economic development; universities and community and technical colleges with small business assistance programs; the work force training and education coordinating board; and other public and private entrepreneurial and small business assistance centers in the state; (3) Complete the curriculum as soon as possible, but no later than June 30, 2007;(4) Make the curriculum free of charge and available for use by individuals and all public and private entrepreneurial development and small business assistance centers throughout the state;(5) Promote curriculum use by providing electronic and printed informational materials on the curriculum to public and private entrepreneurial development and small business assistance centers throughout the state;(6) Ensure curriculum accessibility by promoting the use of web links to the curriculum on state public and private web sites that small business owners and entrepreneurs use in establishing and incorporating their businesses; and(7) Work to complete online links to the curriculum on state public and private web sites by December 31, 2007.Requires the entrepreneurial and small business development curriculum courses to contain written assignments and progress standards that allow participants to submit their work product and prove curriculum completion to state agencies or private organizations for credit.
| Feb 2 | ITED - Majority; 1st substitute bill be substituted, do pass. | |
| Minority; without recommendation. | ||
| And refer to Ways & Means. | ||
| Referred to Ways & Means. | ||
SB 6716-S
by Senate Committee on Financial Institutions, Housing & Consumer Protection (originally sponsored by Senators Fairley, Brown, Eide, and McAuliffe)
Investigating and assessing performance in meeting community credit needs.
Revises the criteria for investigating and assessing performance in meeting community credit needs.
| Feb 2 | FHC - Majority; 1st substitute bill be substituted, do pass. | |
| Minority; without recommendation. | ||
| Passed to Rules Committee for second reading. | ||
SB 6717-S
by Senate Committee on Human Services & Corrections (originally sponsored by Senators Kohl-Welles, Brandland, McAuliffe, Hargrove, Rockefeller, Shin, Rasmussen, Schmidt, and Stevens)
Extending the joint task force on criminal background check processes.
Extends the joint task force on criminal background check processes to December 31, 2006.
| Feb 1 | HSC - Majority; 1st substitute bill be substituted, do pass. | |
| Feb 2 | Passed to Rules Committee for second reading. | |
SB 6739-S
by Senate Committee on Government Operations & Elections (originally sponsored by Senators Deccio, Kastama, McCaslin, Keiser, Honeyford, Shin, Benson, Jacobsen, and Thibaudeau)
Modifying campaign contribution provisions.
Revises campaign contribution provisions.
| Feb 1 | GO - Majority; 1st substitute bill be substituted, do pass. | |
| Minority; do not pass. | ||
| Minority; without recommendation. | ||
| And refer to Ways & Means. | ||
| Feb 2 | Referred to Ways & Means. | |
SB 6759-S
by Senate Committee on Health & Long-Term Care (originally sponsored by Senators Keiser, Kohl-Welles, and Kline)
Requiring a report on the employment status of basic health plan and medical assistance recipients.
Requires the health care authority, in coordination with the department of social and health services, to by December 1st of each year report to the legislature for each month of the preceding fiscal year the number of basic health plan enrollees who were employed, or who were the spouse or dependent child of someone who was employed, and the total cost to the state for these enrollees. The information shall be reported in total, and by employer and industry type for any employer or industry type having more than thirty employees enrolled.Requires the department of social and health services, in coordination with the health care authority, to by December 1st of each year report to the legislature for each month of the preceding fiscal year the number of medical assistance recipients who were employed, or who were the spouse or dependent child of someone who was employed, and the total cost to the state for these recipients. The information shall be reported in total, and by employer and industry type for any employer or industry type having more than thirty employees as recipients.Takes effect January 1, 2007.
| Feb 1 | HEA - Majority; 1st substitute bill be substituted, do pass. | |
| And refer to Ways & Means. | ||
| Feb 2 | Referred to Ways & Means. | |
SB 6779-S
by Senate Committee on Water, Energy & Environment (originally sponsored by Senators Morton and Rasmussen)
Addressing special needs transportation services provided by rural public utility districts.
Provides that a rural public utility district may operate or provide a demand responsive transportation system, within the district's limits, for qualified recipients.Declares that, for the purposes of this act, the following definitions apply: (1) "Demand responsive transportation system" means any transportation system other than a transportation system that operates along a prescribed route according to a fixed schedule. A demand responsive transportation system includes services provided by taxis, limousines, vans, or shuttle buses. A demand responsive transportation system does not include ambulance service.(2) "Disability" means an individual with a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more of the major life activities such as caring for one's self, performing manual tasks, walking, seeing, hearing, speaking, breathing, learning, or working.(3) "Qualified recipient" means any person, including his or her personal attendants, with a disability or who is at least sixty years of age, and who because of physical or mental disability, income status, or age is unable to transport himself or herself or to purchase appropriate transportation.(4) "Rural public utility district" means a district located in a county with a population density of less than nine persons per square mile as determined by the office of financial management.
| Feb 1 | WEE - Majority; 1st substitute bill be substituted, do pass. | |
| And refer to Ways & Means. | ||
| Feb 2 | Referred to Ways & Means. | |
SB 6780-S
by Senate Committee on Early Learning, K-12 & Higher Education (originally sponsored by Senators Kohl-Welles, Carrell, McAuliffe, Weinstein, Esser, Pridemore, Berkey, Delvin, Rasmussen, and Keiser)
Creating a mathematics/science scholar diploma designation and scholarship.
Finds that it is imperative to encourage and inspire our Washington students to pursue higher education in the fields of mathematics, science, and engineering. Our economic viability depends on this, both as a state and as a nation.Creates a mathematics/science scholar designation on the high school diploma. This designation shall be awarded to public school students, and approved private school students at the discretion of the approved private school, who complete the following requirements: (1) Successfully earn the following high school credits: (a) Four mathematics credits, including calculus; (b) at least three science credits, including chemistry and physics; and (c) at least three credits of world language other than English;(2) Receive advanced placement scores of three or higher on at least two advance placement tests;(3) Earn a high school grade point average of 3.5 or above; and(4) Meet the state standards in all content areas of the high school level Washington assessment of student achievement.Directs the higher education coordinating board to award full tuition scholarships to students graduating from public and approved private high schools under chapter 28A.195 RCW who obtain a mathematics/science scholar designation on their high school diplomas, if the student pursues an undergraduate degree in a mathematics or science-related field and who qualify for a scholarship under the ranking system developed by the board.
| Feb 2 | EKHE - Majority; 1st substitute bill be substituted, do pass. | |
| Minority; do not pass. | ||
| And refer to Ways & Means. | ||
| Referred to Ways & Means. | ||
SB 6783-S
by Senate Committee on Early Learning, K-12 & Higher Education (originally sponsored by Senators Shin, Pflug, Schmidt, McAuliffe, Berkey, Rockefeller, Eide, Delvin, Rasmussen, and Kohl-Welles)
Creating the qualified professions conditional scholarship.
Finds that encouraging outstanding students to enter mathematics and science professions is of paramount importance to the state of Washington. By creating the mathematics and science professions conditional scholarship and loan repayment program, the legislature intends to assist in the effort to recruit as mathematics and science professionals individuals who have distinguished themselves through outstanding academic achievement or demonstrated their commitment to mathematics and science professions.Urges business, industry, and philanthropic community organizations to join with state government in making this program successful.
| Feb 2 | EKHE - Majority; 1st substitute bill be substituted, do pass. | |
| And refer to Ways & Means. | ||
| Referred to Ways & Means. | ||
SB 6800-S
by Senate Committee on Transportation (originally sponsored by Senators Haugen, Jacobsen, and Rockefeller; by request of Governor Gregoire)
Refining the roles of the transportation commission and department of transportation.
Revises the roles of the transportation commission and department of transportation.Repeals RCW 47.01.012 and 47.01.330.Repeals provisions of chapter 44.75 RCW.
| Feb 1 | TRAN - Majority; 1st substitute bill be substituted, do pass. | |
| Feb 2 | Passed to Rules Committee for second reading. | |
SB 6888
by Senator Kastama
Encouraging shared parental responsibility in child custody arrangements.
Provides that there shall be a presumption that shared parental responsibility is in the best interests of children unless: (1) The parents have agreed to an alternate award of residential placement or decision-making authority to only one parent;(2) The limitations of RCW 26.09.191 are dispositive of the child's residential schedule; or(3) The court finds that shared parental responsibility would be detrimental due to the age or needs of the child or children.Directs the administrative office of the courts, pursuant to funding provided specifically for this purpose, to commission a study to commence by September 1, 2006. The study shall survey a statistically relevant number of geographically diverse final parenting plans in Washington to determine the allocation of residential time as between parents, including an analysis of gender disparities between parents, and the impact of legal counsel on outcomes of parenting plan disputes. The study shall be completed and a report provided to the legislature, the governor, and to the public within two years of the effective date of this act.
| Feb 6 | First reading, referred to Human Services & Corrections. | |
SB 6889
by Senators Honeyford, Deccio, Schoesler, and Pridemore
Changing taxation of punch boards and pull-tabs.
Provides that, at the option of the county, city-county, city, or town, the taxation of punch boards and pull-tabs for commercial stimulant operators may be based on the gross receipts from the operation of the games, and may not exceed a rate of two and one-half percent, or may be based on gross receipts from the operation of the games less the amount awarded as cash or merchandise prizes, and may not exceed a rate of five percent.
| Feb 6 | First reading, referred to Government Operations & Elections. | |
SB 6890
by Senators Morton and Kline
Creating new provisions governing how businesses request for and handle social security numbers.
Provides that, prior to requesting an individual's social security number, all private and public business enterprises must state that the request is not mandatory and that no penalty for withholding this information can be exacted on the individual by the business enterprise. All organizations holding social security numbers that have not been specifically granted the authority by federal or state law to possess this information must purge their files of these numbers within one hundred twenty days of the effective date of this act.
| Feb 6 | First reading, referred to Financial Institutions, Housing & Consumer Protection. | |