| Washington State House of Representatives Office of Program Research |
BILL ANALYSIS |
| Higher Education Committee | |
SSB 5855
This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in
their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a
statement of legislative intent.
Brief Description: Implementing the Washington learns modifications.
Sponsors: Senate Committee on Higher Education (originally sponsored by Senators Delvin, Shin, Berkey, Kilmer, Oemig and Rasmussen).
Brief Summary of Substitute Bill |
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Hearing Date: 3/19/07
Staff: Jennifer Thornton (786-7111).
Background:
Washington Learns
Legislation enacted in 2005 created a comprehensive education and finance study covering early
learning, Kindergarten-12, and higher education. This effort, known as Washington Learns, was
comprised of a steering committee chaired by the Governor and advisory committees for each
education sector. The Washington Learns Final Report: World-Class, Learner Focused,
Seamless Education, a culmination of the 18 month study, was completed in November 2006.
Higher Education Coordinating Board
In 1985, the Legislature sunset the Council on Post-secondary Education and created the Higher
Education Coordinating Board (HECB). The HECB is composed of 10 members representing
the public, one of whom is a student. The members are appointed by the Governor, subject to
Senate confirmation, and serve four-year terms, with the exception of the student member, whose
term lasts one year.
The HECB's functions include policy development, planning, and research for the higher
education system. Their responsibilities include development of a statewide strategic master plan
for higher education and the development of recommendations on policy and budgetary issues for
consideration by the Governor and the Legislature.
Summary of Bill:
Effective July 1, 2007, the Executive Director of the HECB will be appointed by the Governor
from a list of three names submitted by the HECB. If requested by the Governor, additional
names will be submitted for consideration. The Executive Director will serve at the pleasure of
the Governor.
On even numbered years, the deadline for institutions, the State Board for Community and
Technical Colleges, and the HECB to submit budget recommendations each advance one month.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Available.
Effective Date: The bill contains an emergency clause and section 2 takes effect on July 1,
2007.