SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 5637

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 February 9, 2011

Title: An act relating to internship opportunities.

Brief Description: Requiring creation of a web-based application to match profiles of students and employers for internship opportunities.

Sponsors: Senators Kastama, Hatfield, Shin, Schoesler, Harper, McAuliffe, Fraser, Conway, Kohl-Welles and Chase.

Brief History:

Committee Activity: Economic Development, Trade & Innovation: 2/09/11.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT, TRADE & INNOVATION

Staff: Edward Redmond (786-7471)

Background: The Workforce Training and Education Coordinating Board (Workforce Board) is a Governor-appointed body representing a partnership of 12 members from business, labor, and government. The Workforce Board advises the Governor on workforce development policy, ensures that the state’s workforce preparation services and programs work together, and evaluates performance.

The Workforce Board utilizes a variety of tools in order to meet the state's workforce-preparation objectives. This includes enhancing education and training through opportunity grants, launching strategic initiatives through public and private collaboration, and providing reports on regional development and industry clusters.

Since the 2007 recession, unemployment rates across the country have remained at 9 percent; those affected by the high unemployment rate include college students and recent graduates.

Summary of Bill: The bill as referred to committee not considered.

Summary of Bill (Proposed Substitute): The Workforce Board is required to create a unified, profile-based web application to provide a forum for students and employers to network and promote internship opportunities. The Workforce Board may solicit and receive monetary contributions for the purpose of developing the web application.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Available.

Committee/Commission/Task Force Created: No.

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