Washington State House of Representatives Office of Program Research	BILL ANALYSIS
Commerce & Labor Committee

HCR 4402

Brief Description:  Adopting the update to the state comprehensive plan for work force training and education.

Sponsors:  By Representatives Kenney, Cox, Clements, Conway and McIntire; by request of Workforce Training and Education Coordinating Board.

Brief Summary of Bill

$Adopts goals set forth in the updated comprehensive plan for work force training and education.

Hearing Date:  1/31/01; 1/17/02

Staff:  Jill Reinmuth (786‑7134).

Background:

Executive Order 99-02 directs the Workforce Training and Education Coordinating Board to develop a state unified plan for work force development as described in the Workforce Investment Act of 1998.  State law requires the board to develop a comprehensive plan for workforce training and education, update it every two years, and submit it to the Legislature for approval.

Summary of Bill:

The Legislature commends and thanks the Workforce Training and Education Coordinating Board for producing the unified plan for work force development, including the updated comprehensive plan for work force training and education.

The Legislature adopts the following goals set forth in the updated comprehensive plan:

$Close the gap between the need of employers for skilled workers and the supply of Washington residents prepared to meet that need;

$Implement a strategy for dislocated and incumbent worker training; and

$Develop a wage progression strategy for low-income workers.

Specific progress will be made in improving operating agencies and reducing the earnings gap facing people of color, adults with disabilities, and women.

The Legislature endorses specific objectives and strategies for partners in the work force development system to meet these goals.

Appropriation:  None.

Fiscal Note:  Not requested.