Washington State House of Representatives Office of Program Research | BILL ANALYSIS |
Early Learning & Human Services Committee |
HB 2282
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: Changing provisions relating to the early learning advisory council.
Sponsors: Representatives Farrell, Walsh, Kagi, Roberts and Pollet.
Brief Summary of Bill |
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Hearing Date: 1/20/14
Staff: Luke Wickham (786-7146).
Background:
Early Learning Advisory Council
The Legislature created the Early Learning Advisory Council (ELAC) in 2007 to advise the Department of Early Learning (DEL) on statewide early learning needs and progress. The ELAC delivered a statewide early learning plan in 2010. After completion of that report, the role of the ELAC was revised to advise the DEL on issues that would build a comprehensive system of quality early learning programs and services for Washington's children and families by assessing needs and the availability of services, aligning resources, developing plans for data collection and professional development of early childhood educators, and establishing key performance measures.
The ELAC members serve two-year, staggered terms. The ELAC is co-chaired by one representative of a state agency and one nongovernmental member elected for two-year terms. The DEL provides staff support to the ELAC and members are reimbursed for travel expenses.
Current membership consists of 23 members including one representative from the Department of Early Learning, one representative from the Office of Financial Management, one representative from the Department of Social and Health Services, one representative from the Department of Health, one representative from the Student Achievement Council, one representative from the State Board for Community and Technical Colleges, one representative from the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction, seven leaders in early childhood education appointed by the Governor, two members of the House of Representatives from each caucus, two members of the Senate from each caucus, two parents, one representative of the public-private partnership, one representative designated by sovereign tribal governments, and one representative from the Washington Federation of Independent Schools,
Early Learning Regional Coalitions
Current law requires the DEL director to actively participate in a nongovernmental private-public partnership focused on supporting government investments in early learning and ensuring that every child in the state is prepared to succeed in school and life. This public-private partnership includes ten Early Learning Regional Coalitions (ELRCs) including Central, King County, Northeast, Northwest, North Central, Olympic-Kitsap Peninsulas, Pierce County, Southeast, Southwest, and West Central.
Summary of Bill:
Increases the total membership on the ELAC by 10, from 23 to 33. Representatives from each of the 10 ELRCs are added to the ELAC. The number of leaders in early childhood education appointed to the ELAC by the Governor is reduced by one, from seven to six. A representative of a statewide alliance of early learning advocates is added to the ELAC.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Available.
Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of the session in which the bill is passed.