SENATE BILL REPORT
SHB 2317
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.
As Reported By Senate Committee On:
Higher Education, March 22, 2007
Title: An act relating to defining high demand.
Brief Description: Requiring development of a definition of "high demand."
Sponsors: House Committee on Higher Education (originally sponsored by Representatives Wallace, Anderson, Sells and Kenney).
Brief History: Passed House: 3/10/07, 97-0.
Committee Activity: Higher Education: 3/21/07, 3/22/07 [DP].
SENATE COMMITTEE ON HIGHER EDUCATION
Majority Report: Do pass.Signed by Senators Shin, Chair; Kilmer, Vice Chair; Delvin, Ranking Minority Member; Berkey, Schoesler and Sheldon.
Staff: Aldo Melchiori (786-7439)
Background: The term "high demand" is used frequently in higher education, employment preparation, and workforce-related services. However, there is not a common definition or list used by all agencies and institutions working in these areas. The usage of the term "high demand" varies, and includes high demand programs of study, high demand occupations, high student demand, and high community demand, among others. The term is used in many reports, and funding is appropriated from the Legislature specifically for high demand.
Summary of Substitute Bill: The Higher Education Coordinating Board, the State Board for Community and Technical Colleges, the Office of Financial Management, the Employment Security Department, and the Department of Community, Trade, and Economic Development prepare and jointly submit one definition of high demand to the Legislature by November 1, 2007. The definition will subsequently be used by all agencies and institutions that offer post-secondary education, employment preparation, and workforce-related services.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Not requested.
Committee/Commission/Task Force Created: No.
Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.
Staff Summary of Public Testimony: PRO: We need agreement on the definition of "high demand." Not only do we need a definition, but we also need a state policy addressing the needs of industry in these fields. The definition may change as time passes and employer needs change so this will be an ongoing process.
Persons Testifying: PRO: Representative Wallace, prime sponsor; Jeff Gombosky, Prosperity Partnership; Bryan Wilson, Washington Training and Education Coordinating Board.