HOUSE BILL REPORT

HB 2129

BYRepresentatives Locke, R. Fisher, Brough, Prince, Cantwell, Ebersole, Belcher, Wang, Prentice, Leonard, Wineberry, Vekich and Anderson

Promoting diverse cultures and languages in Washington.

House Committe on Trade & Economic Development

Majority Report:  Do pass.  (12)

      Signed by Representatives Cantwell, Chair; Wineberry, Vice Chair; Doty, Ranking Republican Member; G. Fisher, Kremen, Moyer, Rasmussen, Raiter, Rector, Tate, Walk and Youngsman.

House Staff:Bill Lynch (786-7092)

AS PASSED HOUSE MARCH 14, 1989

BACKGROUND:

Because much of the state's economy depends heavily on foreign trade and international exchange.  It has been suggested that it is important for the state's citizens to be multilingual and multicultural in order for the state to remain competitive in foreign trade and international exchange.

It is also suggested that the multilingual communication that exists in that state should be promoted to build trust and understanding among the state's citizens.

SUMMARY:

It is declared to be the policy of the state to welcome and encourage the presence of diverse cultures and the use of diverse languages in business, government, and private affairs in the state.

The state also encourages all citizens to become proficient in English in order to facilitate full participation of all groups into society and to promote cross-communication between multilingual groups.

Nothing in the legislation creates any right of action or can be relied upon to create the establishment of an entitlement or new program.

Fiscal Note:      Not Requested.

House Committee ‑ Testified For:    Representative Gary Locke, Bill Sponsor;  Paul Knox, Economic Development Board; Warren Burton, Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction; Hector Gonzalez, Director, Washington State Commission on Hispanic Affairs; Garry Howard, Streitz Corporation; Ed Strickland, Staff Sargeant, United States Army; Mae Clise, Department of Trade and Economic Development; and Patrick Lee, Commission on Asian American Affairs.

House Committee - Testified Against:      None Presented.

House Committee - Testimony For:    The bill will help bring international tourists to the state because it is a declaration that the state is accepting of diversity. The state is an international crossroads, and this will help us remain competitive.  This fits with the vision of the Economic Development Board.

House Committee - Testimony Against:      None Presented.