SB 5304-S - DIGEST

(DIGEST OF PROPOSED 1ST SUBSTITUTE)

Creates a program to contract for undergraduate and graduate placements in high-demand fields and programs. For purposes of this program, high-demand fields and programs are programs where enrollment access is limited and fields where employers are experiencing difficulty finding enough qualified graduates to fill job openings. The higher education coordinating board shall administer the program, subject to appropriation.

Declares that Washington public community and technical colleges, public baccalaureate institutions, and private nonprofit colleges and universities are eligible to apply for high demand enrollment funds.

Authorizes the board to accept applications for an enrollment contract from an in-state or border-state, private nonprofit institution but only where such entities have agreed to partner with a public, Washington state college or university to deliver the educational program in high demand.

Requires participating institutions to cooperate with the board to collect the data necessary to report to the governor and the legislature on the impact of the program in this act, particularly the degree of improved access to high-demand fields and programs for students and successful job placements for graduates.