SENATE BILL REPORT
SHB 2503
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 of February 21, 2012
Title: An act relating to early registration at institutions of higher education for eligible veterans and national guard members.
Brief Description: Requiring institutions of higher education that offer an early course registration period to provide early registration for eligible veterans and national guard members.
Sponsors: House Committee on Higher Education (originally sponsored by Representatives Hansen, McCoy, Moscoso, Appleton, Kelley, Springer, Green, Van De Wege, Finn, Hudgins and Maxwell).
Brief History: Passed House: 2/11/12, 95-0.
Committee Activity: Higher Education & Workforce Development: 2/22/12.
SENATE COMMITTEE ON HIGHER EDUCATION & WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT |
Staff: Katherine Taylor (786-7434)
Background: Generally, institutions of higher education in Washington determine student registration order by class standing, which in turn is determined by the number of credits a student has been awarded by the attending institution. However, the Evergreen State College does not offer priority registration to any group of students. The University of Washington offers priority registration to veteran students returning from active duty.
Summary of Bill: Beginning in the academic year 2012-13, institutions of higher education that offer an early course registration period for any segment of the student population are required to have a process in place to offer students who are eligible veterans or National Guard members early registration as follows:
New students who are eligible veterans or National Guard members and who have completed all of their admission processes must be offered an early course registration period.
Continuing students who are eligible veterans or National Guard members who have met current enrollment requirements must be offered early course registration among students with the same level of class standing or credit as determined by the attending institution and according to institutional policies.
In order to be eligible, a veteran or National Guard member must be a Washington domiciliary who was an active or reserve member of the United States military or naval forces, or a National Guard member called to active duty, who served in active federal service, in a war or conflict fought on foreign soil or in international waters, or in another location in support of those serving on foreign soil or in international waters, and who, if discharged from service, has received an honorable discharge.
The provisions expire on August 1, 2021.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Available.
Committee/Commission/Task Force Created: No.
Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.