HOUSE BILL ANALYSIS
ESB 6364
Title: An act relating to including preapprenticeship programs in the definition of work activity.
Brief Description: Including preapprenticeship programs in the definition of work activity.
Sponsors: Senators Wojahn, Hochstatter, Fairley, Deccio, Prentice, Hargrove, Thibaudeau, Jacobsen, Winsley, Costa, Kohl‑Welles and Oke.
HOUSE COMMITTEE ON CHILDREN &
FAMILY SERVICES
Meeting Date:February 17, 2000.
Bill Analysis Prepared by: Tracey Taylor (786-7196).
Background: An apprenticeship is paid on-the-job training that leads to journey status in a given trade. For example, the construction workers, as well as electricians, have apprentice programs. The usual qualifications required to enter an apprenticeship program include reliable child care and transportation, possession of a driver=s license, fluency in English, and the physical capabilities necessary to perform apprenticeship tasks. In 1999, the construction industry in Washington had 5,808 apprentices registered in state-approved union apprentice construction programs.
There are pre-apprenticeship programs to teach prospective apprentices the necessary skills for participation in an apprenticeship program.
Under the WorkFirst program, if a Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) recipient does not find unsubsidized paid employment after the 12 week job search, he is required to engage in job-related activities. There are certain work-related activities that fulfill this requirement, including subsidized paid employment, on-the-job training, community service programs, vocational education, and providing child care services to an individual participating in a community service program.
Summary of Bill: Expands the definition of Awork activity@ under TANF to include a pre-apprenticeship as pre-employment training. There is a limit of up to 20 weeks of pre-apprenticeship training.
Appropriation:None.
Fiscal Note:Available.
Effective Date:Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.