| Washington State House of Representatives Office of Program Research |
BILL ANALYSIS |
| Higher Education Committee | |
SB 6261
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: Requiring the workforce training and education coordinating board to research and evaluate work and learning programs for adult youth.
Sponsors: Senators Kilmer, Rockefeller, Schoesler, Shin, Fraser and Rasmussen.
Brief Summary of Bill |
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Hearing Date: 2/20/08
Staff: Andi Smith (786-7304).
Background:
The Workforce Training and Education Coordinating Board (WTECB) is a tripartite partnership
of business, labor, and government with a membership of 13. The WTECB advises the Governor
and Legislature on workforce development policy, ensures that the state's workforce preparation
services and programs work together, and evaluates performance. The WTECB also advocates
for the non-baccalaureate training and education needs of the workers who account for about 75
percent of Washington State's workforce.
The WTECB is also responsible for performing functions necessary to comply with federal
directives related to workforce education. These duties include advising the Legislature and
Governor on mechanisms for integrating federal initiatives into the state's work force
development system. As such, the WTECB ensures coordination between the state agencies and
local partners that administer a range of state and federal programs that serve youth and adults.
According to the 2006 Workforce Development Directory, 19 percent of total funding for work
force development came from the federal government, while 81 percent come from state sources.
There are six separate programs geared specifically at youth, 14 programs geared toward adults,
while another 19 programs are aimed at adult workers with barriers to employment. Each of the
programs can be accessed variously through WorkSource Centers, community and technical
colleges, public schools, as well as federal, state, and local non-profit agencies around the state.
Summary of Bill:
The WTECB researches and evaluates programs and training systems designed to provide
comprehensive work and learning programs for adult youth between the ages of 18 and 24 years
of age. The WTECB must consult with the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction,
the Higher Education Coordinating Board, and the State Board for Community and Technical
Colleges in conducting the research and analysis.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Available.
Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.