SENATE BILL REPORT

SHB 1470

This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent.

As of March 17, 2011

Title: An act relating to access to K-12 campuses for occupational or educational information.

Brief Description: Regarding access to K-12 campuses for occupational or educational information.

Sponsors: House Committee on Education (originally sponsored by Representative Bailey).

Brief History: Passed House: 2/25/11, 96-2.

Committee Activity: Early Learning & K-12 Education: 3/17/11.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON EARLY LEARNING & K-12 EDUCATION

Staff: Kimberly Cushing (786-7421)

Background: Under current Washington law, if a school board provides access to the campus and the student information directory to people or groups that make students aware of occupational or education options, then the board must provide the same access to military recruiters for the purpose of informing students of educational and career opportunities in the military.

Under the federal No Child Left Behind Act, school districts that receive federal funds must provide military recruiters the same access to secondary school students that is provided generally to post-secondary educational institutions or to prospective employers.

Summary of Bill: In the event that a school district provides access to post-secondary occupational or educational representatives, access must also be provided to recruiters from the Job Corps, Peace Corps, and AmeriCorps. The access provided to military recruiters and those from the Job Corps, Peace Corps, and AmeriCorps must be equal to and no less than the access provided to other post-secondary occupational or educational representatives. Access is defined to include, but is not limited to, the number of days provided and type of presentation space.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Not requested.

Committee/Commission/Task Force Created: No.

Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.

Staff Summary of Public Testimony: PRO The nexus for this bill came about from the Joint Committee on Veterans' and Military Affairs. We want to allow students to hear as many opportunities as they can for their post-secondary career options. It is very important for students to know what opportunities exist in order to find their pathway. For one student, college wasn't a viable option nor were many career prospects. Joining the Navy after meeting military recruiters in high school became one of the most pivotal aspects of her life. The Navy taught her to make decisions and be accountable for them and led her to a high-wage career in life sciences.

Persons Testifying: PRO: Representative Bailey, prime sponsor; Ted Wicorek, Veterans Legislative Coalition; Stacie Byars, citizen.