| VETO MESSAGE ON 2SHB 2449 |
| April 1, 2016 |
| To the Honorable Speaker and Members, |
| The House of Representatives of the State of Washington |
| Ladies and Gentlemen: |
| I am returning herewith, without my approval as to Sections 1, 13-15, and 21, Second Substitute House Bill No. 2449 entitled: |
"AN ACT Relating to court-based and school-based intervention and prevention efforts to promote attendance and reduce truancy." |
| Section 1 is an intent section that is not necessary for the policy implementation of the bill. |
| Sections 13-15 and 21 of the bill reduce funding for the state Learning Assistance Program (LAP), which supports academic achievement for low-income students. LAP resources are allocated based on school poverty rates and by law must be focused first on evidence-based instructional strategies to teach elementary school students to read. Before rededicating these funds, we need evidence that prioritizing the reduction of absenteeism over early reading readiness and acquisition is a more effective means to promote academic achievement for low-income students. |
| For these reasons I have vetoed Sections 1, 13-15, and 21 of Second Substitute House Bill No. 2449. |
| With the exception of Sections 1, 13-15, and 21, Second Substitute House Bill No. 2449 is approved. |
| Respectfully submitted, |
| Jay Inslee |
| Governor |