WSU Tracking
Short List
May 30, 2007
Final 2007 Actions(Click on the bill number to view
complete text and other
documents) |
| SHB 1091 |
SB 5090 |
Innovation partnership zones |
C 227 L 07 |
4/30/2007 |
Van De Wege |
Support |
| Innovation Partnership Zones The director of the Department of Community Trade, and Economic Development shall designate innovation partnership zones that will be eligible for special funding opportunities. Innovation partnership zones must have three types of institutions operating within their boundaries, or show evidence of planning and local partnerships that will lead to dense concentrations of these institutions:
1. Research capacity in the form of a university or community college fostering commercially valuable research, nonprofit institutions creating commercially applicable innovations, or a national laboratory;
2. Dense proximity of globally competitive firms in a research-based industry or industries or of individual firms with innovation strategies. A globally competitive
firm may be signified through international organization for standardization 9000 or 1400 certification, or other recognized evidence of international success; and
3. Training capacity either within the zone or readily accessible to the zone. The training capacity requirement may be met by the same institution as the research capacity requirement, to the extent both are associated with an educational institution in the proposed zone. Passed the state House of Representatives 96-0 on March 9. Passed the state Senate 45-0 on April 9. The House refused to agree to the Senate amendments on April 17. The House concurred unanimously with the Senate amendments on April 20. Signed by the governor on April 30. Takes effect July 22 (90 days after adjournment.) (WSU fiscal note provided) |
|
| ESHB 1092 |
SB 5156 |
Capital budget |
C 520 L 07 |
5/15/2007 |
Fromhold |
Strongly Support |
Capital Construction Budget Bill Completion of the Pullman Life Sciences Building is the highlight of a record $180.6 million WSU construction budget contained in this capital budget that has been signed by the governor. The $58 million appropriation to complete construction of the WSU Life Sciences Building, $29 million in new funding for the WSU Vancouver campus including construction of a new classroom building, and $59 million in critical dollars to improve and preserve existing facilities are in the conference committee version of the 2007-2009 construction budget. Passed the state House of Representatives 93-4 on March 26. Passed the state Senate 47-0 on March 31. Conference report passed the state Senate 46-0 on April 21. Passed the House 96-1 on April 22. Effective July 1, 2007, the bill has been signed by the governor May 15 with a partial veto on that did not impact WSU sections of the bill.
Click here for Governor Gregoire's construction budget veto message. |
|
| SHB 1128 |
SB 5140 |
Operating budget 2007-09 |
C 522 L 07 |
5/15/2007 |
Sommers |
Strongly Support |
Final Biennial & Supplemental Operating Budget Bill The final budget signed by the governor boosts Washington State University’s state funding 17.9 percent in the next two years. Student enrollments will increase at all campuses, agricultural research funding will be boosted by $5.3 million, and salaries will increase by an average of 3.2 percent Sept. 1 through the new $508.6 million compromise operating budget for WSU. The first state appropriations for medical education programs in Spokane, a WSU PhD program in nursing, a new Spokane Applied Sciences Laboratory, a new engineering program at WSU Vancouver, and WSU Small Business Development Centers are just some of the items contained in the final resolution of House-Senate budget differences. Passed the state House of Representatives 62-35 on March 26. Passed the state Senate 30-17 on March 31. Conference budget passed the Senate 31-17 on April 22. All Democrats except Sen. Sheldon voted for the bill. Conference budget passed the House 60-36 on April 22. Vote was along party lines except Campbell was the lone Republican yes vote, Simpson & Wilson voted no; Bill has passed both houses. Effective July 1, 2007, the bill has been signed by the governor May 15 with a partial veto on that did not impact WSU sections of the bill.
Click here for Governor Gregoire's operating budget veto message. |
|
| ESHB 1131 |
SB 5155 |
Passport to college program |
C 314 L 07 |
5/4/2007 |
Dunshee |
|
| Assistance to Foster Youth Subject to available funds, the HEC Board is to design a program of supplemental scholarship and student assistance for students who have emancipated from the state foster care system after having spent at least one year in care. All institutions of higher education that receive funding for student support services under this act shall include (on their applications for admission or on their registration materials) a question asking whether the applicant has been in foster care in Washington state for at least one year since his or her sixteenth birthday. All other institutions of higher education are strongly encouraged to include such a question. No institution may consider whether an applicant may be eligible for a scholarship or student support services under this law when deciding whether the applicant will be granted admission. The HEC Board is to report on a potential scholarship program on Jan. 15, 2008. Passed the state House of Representatives 81-16 on March 6. Passed the state Senate 47-2 on April 11. The House voted 78-16 on April 14 to concur with the Senate amendments. Bill has passed both houses and was signed by the governor May 4. (WSU fiscal note provided) |
|
| ESHB 1179 |
|
State need grant |
C 404 L 07 |
5/9/2007 |
Hasegawa |
|
| Part-time Student Need Grant Reduces the minimum number of quarter credits for which a student must be
enrolled to receive a State Need Grant from six to three (or the semester
equivalent). Allows students enrolled on a less-than-half-time basis to be eligible for a State Need Grant for one year even if the student has not yet matriculated into a program leading to a degree or certificate. Allows institutions to give an eligible student a preliminary State Need Grant before the student has completed the Free Application for Federal Student Aid. Changes the minimum number of quarter credits required to receive a loan or aid from an institution's institutional financial aid fund from six per term to three (or the semester equivalent). Passed the state House of Representatives 98-0 on March 12. Passed the state Senate 48-0 on April 19. House concurred with the Senate amendments. Bill has passed both houses and was signed by the governor May 9. Effective July 22. |
|
| E2SHB 1303 |
SB 5586 |
Cleaner energy |
C 348 L 07 |
5/7/2007 |
Dickerson |
Support |
Clean Energy Bill An appropriation in the budget of $800,000 for bioproducts research is tied to this bill but is unaffected by Gov. Gregoire's partial veto. The governor vetoed section 306 which called for a study that likely would have been done by WSU through the Department of Community Trade and Economic Development. The study called for an assessment of the availability of alternative fuels in the state and best estimates to indicate, by percentage, the types of biofuels feedstocks and sources that contribute to biofuels used in the state. It asked for mechanisms to help Washington farmers and businesses compete…” The governor’s staff indicates the study in Section 306 was redundant to language in section 402 of the bill, a section that she signed intact. Section 402 calls for Washington State University to analyze the availability of biofuels in the state and to make best estimates to indicate, by percentage, the types and geographic origins of biofuels feedstock sources…and recommend models for possible implementation.” An interim report is required to the Legislature and the Governor by Dec. 1. Passed the state House of Representatives 79-18 on March 10. Passed the state Senate 44-4 with floor amendments on April 13. The House refused to agree to the Senate amendments on April 17. The House agreed to the Senate amendments 79-19 on April 20. Gov. Gregoire partially vetoed Engrossed Second Substitute House Bill 1303, the Cleaner Energy Act, May 7. Effective July 1, 2007, the bill has been signed by the governor May 7 with a partial veto on Section 306 (WSU fiscal note provided)
Click here for Governor Gregoire's veto message on the "cleaner energy" bill. |
|
| SHB 1398 |
SB 5384 |
U of W and WSU |
C 24 L 07 |
4/10/2007 |
Fromhold |
Support |
| UW-WSU Bond Bill Expands the University of Washington's and Washington State University's local borrowing authority by allowing the universities to bond against all nonappropriated funds. The authority of the University of Washington and Washington State University to issue bonds is expanded to any university purpose. Any nonappropriated funds may be obligated for the repayment of such bonds. This debt will not count against the state's constitutional
debt limit and will not be backed by the full faith and credit of the state. The universities must report annually to the appropriate committees of the Legislature and the State Treasurer on the use of this bonding authority.
Language was removed that required bonds to be rated no lower than the lowest subcategory of the single "A" rating category by at least one nationally recognized credit rating agency. The scope of the annual reporting requirement was expanded to include additional summary level information.WSU testified for the legislation in the House Capital Budget Committee Bill passed the state House of
Representatives 93-1; Passed the state Senate 45-0 on April 2.Governor signed into law April 10. Effective July 22, 2007. (WSU fiscal note provided) |
|
| 2SHB 1506 |
SB 5489 |
Alternative public works |
C 494 L 07 |
5/15/2007 |
Haigh |
Strongly Support |
| Six-Year Extension on Alternate Public Works This legislation expands the use of the design-build and general contractor/construction manager contracting (GC/CM) procedures to other institutions of higher education (WSU previously had the authority.) The authority extends to contracts signed by July 1, 2013. The previous authorization to use alternative public works procedures was to expire June 30, 2007. The use of design-build contraction authority is extended to parking garages, pre-fabricated buildings, and projects over $10 million. This authority is used when there is a repetitive design employed. Except for utility projects, the design-build procedure may not be used to procure operations and maintenance services for a period longer than three years. GC/CM is allowed when there is complex scheduling or phasing of a project or when work is done to an occupied building. A public body may apply for certification to use the design-build or general contractor/construction manager contracting procedure, or both. Once certified, a public body may use the contracting procedure for which it is certified on individual projects with a total project cost over ten million dollars without seeking committee approval. The certification period is three years."Job Order" contracting authority is also given to Washington State University & UW on projects up to $4 million, such on construction, repair and renovation where a short lead time is beneficial to the public up until the year 2013. Establishes a project review committee to begin immediate upon signing this act and approve the use of design-build and GC/CM contracting procedures. Requires data collection for evaluation of alternative contracting procedures. Passed the state House of Representatives 98-0 on March 12. Passed the state Senate 47-1 on April 6. The House concurred with the Senate amendments 98-0 on April 17 Bill has passed both houses and was signed by the governor on May 15. Most provisions are effective July 1, 2007. (WSU fiscal note provided) |
|
| E2SHB 1705 |
SB 5616 |
Health sciences and services |
C 251 L 07 |
5/1/2007 |
Barlow |
Support |
| Institute for Systems Medicine (ISM) Bill This is legislation that is envisioned to be a funding source for the Institute for Systems Medicine in Spokane. The bill provides that health sciences and services authorities can be created by sponsoring local governments to promote bioscience-based economic development and advance new therapies and procedures to combat disease and promote public health. Sponsoring local governments can be a city, town, or county. The authority must be established by an ordinance or resolution. The ordinance must at minimum establish an administrative board for the authority, and specify the powers and duties and boundaries of the authority.
In the latest Senate version of the bill: The credit against the state sales tax is increased from .0075 percent to .015 percent. (Approximately $2.2 million per biennium.) The creation of a health sciences and
services authority is limited to one location, probably Spokane. (King County is not eligible.) It is overseen by a 14-member board, three appointed by the governor, three by the county commissioners, three by the Mayor, and five others. The Higher Education Coordinating Board is responsible for approval of an application to create a Health Sciences and Services Authority instead of CTED. The manner in which the board members are appointed are changed. The provision requiring the HEC board to report to the legislature is replaced by a JLARC study and the authority shall apply for a Washington Quality Award. Passed the state House of Representatives 68-29 on March 12. Passed the state Senate 48-0 on April 12 without the Ways & Means Amendments and with floor amendments. The House concurred with the Senate amendments on April 20. Bill has passed both houses. It was signed by the governor May 1. The bill is effective July 22. |
|
| E2SHB 1779 |
SB 5555 |
GET ready for math & science |
C 214 L 07 |
4/27/2007 |
Wallace |
|
| Get Ready for Math & Science The GET Ready for Math and Science
Scholarship Program (Scholarship Program) is created. The Scholarship Program provides college scholarships for students who: (1)score a 4 on the 10th grade Washington Assessment of Student Learning (WASL) in either math or science or score in the 95th percentile on mathematics on the SAT or ACT; (2) have a family income no greater than 125 percent of the median family income in Washington at the time they apply for the scholarship and for up to the two previous years; (3)agree to major in a math, science, or related field; and (4) make a commitment to work for at least three years in Washington in a mathematics, science,or related field. Students must enroll in an institution of higher education within one year of high school graduation, take at least one mathematics or science course each term, maintain satisfactory academic progress, and enter a qualified program no later than their junior year. The scholarships can be used at any public or private accredited college or university in Washington. The maximum annual scholarship amount cannot be more than the annual cost of undergraduate tuition and fees at the University of Washington. The Higher Education Coordinating Board (HECB) buys tuition units from the state's Guaranteed Education Tuition Program to be used for the GET Ready for Math and Science scholarships. Senate amendments contained in the final bill: The HECB and the private non-profit administrator are to jointly establish criteria for selecting among eligible applicants. Priority
is to be given to those applicants who, without the scholarship, would be least likely to major in math or science at a Washington college or university. The striking amendment clarifies that scholarships are only awarded to the extent that state and private matching funds are available for that purpose in the account created by the bill. Passed the state House of Representatives 76-22 on March 12. Passed the state Senate 47-1 April 5. The House concurred with Senate amendments 72-21 on April 14. The bill was signed by the governor April 27. Bill becomes law 90 days after adjournment. |
|
| SHB 1784 |
SB 5766 |
Investment of certain moneys |
C 215 L 07 |
4/27/2007 |
Kenney |
Support |
| By Request of Washington State University Sponsored by state Rep. Phyllis Kenney. This is a proposed statutory change to implement the intent of a proposed state constitutional amendment, House Joint Resolution 4215. The bill was heard by the House Capital Budget Committee on Feb. 8. State Treasurer Mike Murphy has proposed amendments. If HJR 4215 is adopted, this bill makes technical changes to state law that would allow the State Investment Board to invest in equities with money in the higher education trust permanent funds.The bill was amended in the House Capital Budget Committee on Feb. 22 and passed out with amendments supported by WSU and the state Treasurer. Bill passed the state House of
Representatives on March 7 by a vote of 92-2. Voting Nay were Hasegawa and Anderson. Passed the state Senate 47-0 on April 11. Bill was signed by the governor on April 27. The act takes effect if voters approve Substitute House Joint Resolution 4215 in the November election.. (WSU fiscal note provided) |
|
| ESHB 1883 |
|
Higher edu coordinating brd |
C 458 L 07 |
5/14/2007 |
Wallace |
Neutral |
Higher Ed Board Strategic Planning The HECB's statewide strategic master plan for higher education and institution-level strategic plans at the four-year institutions will all cover a 10-year time period. The HECB will update its plan every four years, and it will address the goals of: expanding access; using methods of
educational delivery that are efficient, cost-effective, and productive to deliver modern educational programs; and using performance measures. The deadline for the HECB, State Board for Community and Technical Colleges (SBCTC),
and four-year institutions to submit budget recommendations are all moved up one month in each even-numbered year. The operating and capital budget outlines submitted by the SBCTC and institutions to the HECB will include all policy changes and enhancements that will be requested and a prioritized ranking of capital requests. The bill requires WSU to do a 10-year strategic plan. Biennial budget requests are due to the HEC Board by July 1 of each even-numbered year. Bill passed the state House of Representatives on March 14 by a vote of 95-1. Passed the state Senate 46-1 on April 6. The House concurred with the Senate amendments 93-1 on April 14. Bill has passed both houses and was signed by the governor on May 14 with a partial veto that took out the emergency clause. Effective July 22, 2007.
Click here for Governor Gregoire's veto message on the HEC Board bill. |
|
| 2SHB 1906 |
SB 5813 |
Math and science education |
C 396 L 07 |
5/9/2007 |
Hunter |
Neutral |
Math Placement Test By June 30, 2008, the state board of education shall provide official comment and recommendations to the superintendent of public instruction regarding the recommended mathematics curricula. The superintendent of public instruction shall make any changes based on the comment and recommendations from the state board of education and adopt the recommended curricula. By May 15, 2009, the superintendent of public instruction shall present to the state board of education recommendations for no more than three basic science curricula each for elementary, middle, and high school grade spans.
A mathematics and science instructional coach program is authorized, which shall consist of a coach development institute, coaching seminars, coaching activities in schools, and program evaluation.The Washington State University social and economic sciences research center shall conduct an evaluation of the mathematics and science instructional coach program in this section. Data shall be collected through various instruments including surveys, program and activity reports, student performance measures, observations, interviews, and other processes. Findings shall include an evaluation.of the coach development institute, coaching support seminars, and other coach support activities; recommendations with regard to the characteristics required of the coaches; identification of changes in teacher instruction related to coaching activities; and identification of the satisfaction level with coaching activities as experienced by classroom teachers and administrators. The Washington State University social and economic sciences research center shall report its findings to the governor, the office of the superintendent of public instruction, and the education and fiscal committees of the legislature. An interim report is due November 1, 2008. The final report is due December 1, 2009. Passed the state House of Representatives 90-7 on March 28. Passed the state Senate 37-12 on April 11. House voted to concur with the Senate amendments 96-2 on April 17. Bill has passed both houses was signed into law by the governor on May 9. Much of the bill takes effect immediately. (WSU Fiscal Note Provided) |
|
| SHB 2010 |
SB 5856 |
Bidder responsibility |
C 133 L 07 |
4/19/2007 |
Haigh |
|
| Responsible bidder is defined for purposes of public works contracts. In order to be considered a responsible bidder, the bidder must have a certificate of registration at the time of bid submission; a current state unified business identifier number; and, if applicable, worker's compensation coverage for the bidder's employees working in Washington, an Employment Security Department number, and a state excise tax registration number.. Passed the state House 76-21 on March 9. Passed the state Senate 43-3 on April 5. Bill has passed both houses and is headed to the governor. Governor signed on April 19. Effective July 22, 2007. (WSU fiscal note prepared. No fiscal impact. ) |
|
| ESHB 2164 |
|
Multiple-unit housing |
C 185 L 07 |
4/21/2007 |
Dunshee |
Neutral |
| Requires a multi-unit housing development sited within the area of a campus facility
master plan to obtain prior approval from the university or college in order to participate in the property tax exemption for urban multi-family housing. Passed the state House of Representatives 74-22 on March 13. Passed the state Senate 42-3 on April 10. Signed into law by the governor on April 21. Effective July 1, 2007. |
|
| HB 2281 |
|
Shared leave |
C 454 L 07 |
5/14/2007 |
Appleton |
|
| Emergency Shared Leave An agency head may permit an employee to receive leave under the Program if a state of emergency has been declared anywhere within the United States by the federal or any state government and the employee has needed skills to assist in responding to the emergency or its aftermath. Passed the state House 96-0 on March 6. Passed the state Senate 44-0 on April 12. House concurred with the Senate amendments. Bill has passed both houses and was signed by the governor on May 14. Bill is effective July 22. (WSU fiscal note prepared, impact likely under $50,000.) |
|
| SHB 2300 |
SB 6077 |
College textbooks |
C 186 L 07 |
4/21/2007 |
Hasegawa |
|
| Each publisher of college textbooks shall make immediately
available to a prospective purchaser of their products the price at which the publisher would make the products available to a campus bookstore and any revisions to the product. Passed the state House of Representatives 93-4 on March 12. Passed the state Senate 45-0 on April 10. Signed into law by the Governor on April 21. Effective July 22, 2007. |
|
| SHB 2361 |
HB 1399 |
Collective bargaining |
C 136 L 07 |
4/19/2007 |
Conway |
Neutral/Amendments |
| Staff Collective Bargaining HB 1399 Extends collective bargaining rights to managers and administrators who were previously exempt. WSU testified in the House Commerce and Labor Committee on Feb. 6. WSU expressed concerns that the bill adds high level managers to the collective bargaining process, something that is not allowed elsewhere in state government. This is a new bill with changes that address WSU's greatest concerns. Passed the state House of Representatives 75-22 on March 10. Passed the state Senate 38-10 on April 6. Bill has been signed into law by the governor April 19. Effective July 22, 2007. (WSU fiscal note provided) |
|
| SHB 2366 |
|
State facility planning |
C 506 L 07 |
5/15/2007 |
Dunshee |
Concerns |
| Oversight & Financial Analysis of State Agency Capital Decisions OFM must design and implement a modified predesign process for space requests to lease, purchase, or build facilities for new state programs, expanded programs, or the relocation of programs including the consolidation of multiple state agency tenants into one facility. This legislation is supported by the state Office of Financial Management Passed the state House of Representatives 95-0 on March 14.Passed the state Senate 46-0 on April 13. Bill has passed both houses and was signed by the governor on May 15. |
|
| SHJR 4215 |
SJR 8220 |
Prohibition on investment |
H Filed Sec/St |
4/18/2007 |
Kenney |
Support |
| By request of Washington State University. This is a proposed constitutional amendment that will permit the state investment board to buy stocks or equities for investment of funds derived from university trust land revenues. Currently, the State Investment Board is limited to government bonds. This legislation is intended to benefit the state's six baccalaureate institutions. It extend the authority to them that has been granted to K-12, the state pension funds, Labor and Industries funds, and university permanent funds in many other states. The proposal was heard Feb. 8 in the House Capital Budget Committee. State Treasurer Mike Murphy supported the concept. The bill was amended in the House Capital Budget Committee on Feb. 22 and passed out with amendments supported by WSU and the state Treasurer. Bill passed the state House of Representatives 92-2 on March 8. The Senate passed the bill 45-0 on April 11. The measure gained the necessary two-thirds positive vote of each house to be on the November ballot. It has been filed with the Secretary of State. |
|
| HR 4658 |
|
V. Lane Rawlins |
H Adopted |
4/12/2007 |
Hunt |
Strongly Support |
| Resolution honoring President V. Lane Rawlins. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives acknowledge the leadership of V. Lane Rawlins in promoting a "World Class Education, Face to Face" at Washington State University; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives recognize the outstanding statewide advances in higher education and student potential as a result of V. Lane Rawlins' term as president of Washington State University; Sponsored by Rep. Sam Hunt, D-Olympia. Other cosponsors were: Buri, Williams, Newhouse, Jarrett, Hailey, Wood, Wallace, Sells, Walsh, Kenney, Chase, Lovick, P. Sullivan, Takko, Ericks, Clibborn, Fromhold, VanDeWege, Linville, Haler, Moeller, Morrell, McIntire, Conway, Hasegawa, McCoy, Warnick, Darneille Resolution adoped on a voice vote by the state House of Representatives April 12. |
|
| HR 4661 |
SR 8688 |
WSU men's basketball team |
H Adopted |
4/14/2007 |
Hunt |
Strongly Support |
| Resolution Honoring WSU Coach Tony Bennett NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives honor the outstanding success of the Washington State University men's basketball team for its success on the court and in the classroom during the 2007 season; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives congratulate Head CoachTony Bennett for his leadership in driving the Washington State University men's basketball team to success and for his numerous honors as National Coach of the Year. Sponsored by State Rep. Sam Hunt, D-Olympia. Other cosponsors were Reps. Newhouse, Williams, Buri, Ericks, VanDeWege, Wood, Moeller, Jarrett, Hailey, Warnick. Resolution adoped on a voice vote by the state House of Representatives April 14. |
|
| SSB 5002 |
HB 1454 |
Tuition waivers |
C 450 L 07 |
5/14/2007 |
Hewitt |
Concerns |
| Disabled Veterans Waiver Bill This is a mandatory waiver. Higher education institutions may continue to reduce all or a portion of tuition for
military or naval veterans who did not serve on foreign soils or in international waters. State higher education institutions must waive all tuition and fees for the children and spouses of eligible veterans or National Guard members who died, are permanently and totally disabled, are missing in action, or are prisoners of war. To be eligible, a child must be a Washington domicilary between the age of 17 and 26. A surviving spouse, to be eligible, must be a Washington domiciliary, it must have been 10 years or less since the loss, and must not have remarried. Each recipient's continued eligibility is subject to the school's satisfactory progress policy. Bill passed the state Senate 48-0 on Feb. 2. Passed the state House of Representative 98-0 on April 5. The Senate voted 47-0 to concur with the Senate amendments on April 14. Bill has passed both houses and was signed by the governor on May 14. (WSU fiscal note provided) |
|
| SSB 5032 |
HB 1049 |
Vancouver historic reserve |
C 138 L 07 |
4/20/2007 |
Pridemore |
|
| Vancouver historic reserve The Legislature affirms that the state is a partner in the Reserve and will take an
active role in supporting the protection, preservation, interpretation, and rehabilitation of the
Reserve. The Washington State Historical Society is the state's designated partner
representative for the Reserve. The State Historical Society is directed to participate in coordination meetings and in the development of plans and policies associated with the Reserve, partner with Washington State University and other agencies to manage the Center for Columbia River History, to develop and submit operating and capital budget requests, and to oversee the management of all funds appropriated by the state for the Reserve. Passed the state Senate 47-0 on Feb. 28. Passed the state House 94-0 on April 6. Bill was signed into law by the governor on April 20. Effective July 22, 2007. (WSU fiscal note prepared, No impact.) |
|
| 2SSB 5092 |
HB 1178 |
Associate development org |
C 249 L 07 |
5/1/2007 |
Marr |
|
| Associate Development Organizations The Department of Community and Trade and Economic Development's obligations to establish service delivery regions and contract for surveys and coordination of technical assistance are eliminated. ADO contracts will require the delivery of direct assistance to companies needing support to survive, expand, or relocate. The contracts will also require support for regional economic research and regional planning efforts to implement economic development strategies. Passed the state Senate 49-0 on March 7. Passed the state House 97-1 on April 9. Senate concurred with the House amendments. Bill has passed both houses and was signed by the governor on May 1. Effective July 22, 2007. (WSU fiscal note prepared, no fiscal impact.) |
|
| E2SSB 5098 |
|
Opportunities scholarship |
C 405 L 07 |
5/9/2007 |
Rockefeller |
|
| The Washington College Bound Scholarship is created.(Formerly the opportunities scholarship.) Eligible students are
students who are eligible for free- or reduced-price lunch. Eligible students are notified of their eligibility for the scholarship in 7th grade. Home schooled students are eligible for the scholarship program. To be awarded the scholarship an eligible student must pledge, during their 7th or 8th grade years, that they will: (1) graduate from high school; (2) graduate with a C average; and (3) not have any felony convictions. To receive the scholarship, the student must have kept the pledge, must have a family income at high school graduation below 65 percent of the state median, and must be a resident student.The scholarship is equal to the difference between the cost of the student's tuition and fees at a public college or university, plus $500 for books and materials minus the value of any other state financial aid received for those items. The maximum award is for four years. An eligible student's family income is assessed upon graduation and if the family income exceeds 50 percent of the median family income, but does not exceed 100 percent of the state median family income, the student receives a prorated scholarship. The first scholarships are awarded to students graduating in 2012. Bill passed the state Senate 46-0 on March 13. Passed the state House of Representatives 78-20 on April 10. Senate concurred with the House amendments. Bill has passed both houses and was signed by Gov. Gregoire on May 9 at Pacific Science Center in Seattle. |
|
| SSB 5101 |
|
Higher education waivers |
C 461 L 07 |
5/14/2007 |
Hobbs |
Concerns |
| Teacher high demand waivers Teachers and certificated instructional staff at public common schools and vocational schools are included within the definition of "state employees" for purposes of college tuition waivers for state employees. In order to be eligible for a tuition waiver, the teacher or staff must hold, or be
seeking, a valid endorsement and assignment in a state-identified shortage area. Bill passed the state Senate 43-0 on March 6. Passed the state House of Representative 97-0 on April 5. Senate concurred with the House amendments 45-0 on April 16. Bill has passed both houses and was signed by the governor May 14. (WSU fiscal note provided) |
|
| SSB 5248 |
HB 1167 |
Agricultural lands |
C 353 L 07 |
5/8/2007 |
Hatfield |
Neutral |
Agriculture & Critical Area Ordinances Counties and cities may not amend or adopt critical areas ordinances (CAOs) as they specifically apply to agricultural activities until July 1, 2010. This does not limit obligations of a county or city to comply with requirements pertaining to critical areas not associated with agricultural activities nor limit the ability of a county or city to adopt or employ voluntary measures or programs to protect or enhance critical areas associated with
agricultural activities.
Subject to the availability of funds, the UW-WSU Ruckelshaus Center is directed to commence, by July 1, 2007, a two-phase examination of the conflicts between agricultural activities and CAOs. The first phase is to conduct fact-finding and stakeholder discussions, and the second phase is to facilitate discussions to identify policy and financial options or opportunities to address issues and desired outcomes. The stakeholders must examine innovative solutions that include
outcome-based approaches that incorporate, to the maximum extent practicable, voluntary programs or approaches. Additionally, stakeholders must examine ways to modify statutory provisions to ensure that regulatory constraints on agricultural activities are used as a last resort if the desired outcomes are not achieved through voluntary programs or approaches.
The Center is to issue two reports of its fact-finding efforts and stakeholder discussions to the Governor and the appropriate legislative committees by December 1, 2007, and December 1, 2008. A report on the second phase including findings and legislative recommendations is to be issued to the Governor and to the Legislature by September, 1, 2009. The Center is to work to achieve agreement among participating stakeholders and to develop a coalition that can be used to support agreed upon changes or new approaches to protecting critical areas during the 2010 Legislative Session. Bill passed the state Senate 32-17 on March 4. Passed the state House of Representative 82-15 on April 13. Bill has passed both houses and was signed by the governor on May 8. Takes effect immediately. Expires in December, 2011. (WSU fiscal note provided) |
|
| SSB 5340 |
|
Definition of disability |
C 317 L 07 |
5/4/2007 |
Kline |
Concerns |
| Defining disability The bill is a reaction to a recent state Supreme Court decision. It seeks a definition independent of federal law. "Disability" is defined as a sensory, mental, or physical impairment that is medically cognizable or diagnosable, or exists as a record or history, or is perceived to exist, whether or not it actually exists. The "disability" exists whether it is temporary or permanent, common or uncommon, mitigated or unmitigated, or whether it limits the ability to work or engage in any other activity encompassed within Washington's anti-discrimination law. "Impairment" includes a physiological disorder, cosmetic disfigurement, anatomical loss affecting one or more of several specified body systems, and mental, developmental, traumatic, and psychological disorders. Bill passed the state Senate 42-6 on March 8. Passed the state House of Representatives 66-32 on April 10. The Senate refused to concur with the House amendments on April 16. Amended on the House floor and re-passed 62-35 on April 18. Senate concurred with the House amendments 46-2 on April 20. Effective July 22, Signed by the governor May 4. |
|
| ESSB 5372 |
HB 1374 |
Puget Sound partnership |
C 341 L 07 |
5/7/2007 |
Rockefeller |
Neutral |
Puget Sound A new state agency, the Puget Sound Partnership (Partnership), is created to oversee restoration of the environmental health of Puget Sound by the year 2020.The seven-member Council will lead the Partnership. Members will be appointed by the Governor to four-year terms with the advice and consent of the Washington State Senate, and will be compensated on a per diem basis and reimbursed for travel expenses.The Executive Director will administer the Partnership, subject to Council guidance. He or she will be appointed by the Governor in consultation with the Council and serves at the pleasure of the Governor.
The nine-member Science Panel will provide independent scientific advice to the Council. Members will be selected and appointed by the Council to four-year terms from 15 nominees submitted by the UW-WSU Washington Academy of Sciences. The Executive Director will designate a lead staff scientist to coordinate Science Panel actions and staff.
Fiscal impact to WSU is expected to be about $60,000 per biennium.
By December 1, 2010, the Washington Academy of Sciences will conduct an assessment of basin-wide restoration progress, including whether environmental indicators and benchmarks accurately measure and reflect progress toward Action Agenda goals.
Bill passed the state Senate 41-5 on March 10. Passed the state House of Representatives 86-12 on April 10. Senate concurred with the House amendments 43-4 on April 20. Bill has passed both houses and was signed by the governor on May 7. Effective July 1, 2007. |
|
| ESB 5385 |
EHB 1436 |
Student loan revenue bonds |
C 36 L 07 |
4/13/2007 |
Shin |
Neutral |
| State Student Loans The Washington Higher Education Facilities Authority is authorized to originate and purchase educational loans and to issue student loan revenue bonds. The intention is to replace the "Student Loan Finance Authority,": which was sold to Sallie Mae. The Authority has the power to form non-profit special purpose corporations or may contract with non-profit corporations to accomplish these purposes. State educational loans are not guaranteed by the state and the proceeds from loan repayment may be used to make required payments to bondholders. It still takes four of the seven members to constitute a quorum at meetings of the Authority. However, members who participate by a means of communication that allows all members to hear each other during a meeting are deemed to be present in person at the meeting for all purposes. Bill passed the state Senate 49-0 on March 7. Passed the House 97-0 on April 3. Signed into law by the governor on April 13. Effective July 22, 2007. |
|
| SSB 5503 |
HB 1585 |
Athletic trainers |
C 253 L 07 |
5/1/2007 |
Marr |
|
| Athletic Trainers Regulation Athletic trainers are created as a new health profession to be regulated by the Department of Health (DOH). Currently, athletic trainers are unregulated. An athletic trainer must hold a license issued by DOH in order to practice athletic training. Athletic trainers provide services relating to the prevention, immediate care, evaluation, treatment, rehabilitation, reconditioning, and management of athletic injuries. Athletic training services do not include spinal adjustment or manipulation; orthotic or prosthetic services; occupational therapy; medical diagnosis; acupuncture; or prescribing legend drugs or controlled substances; or surgery. If a patient's condition does not improve in 15 days, the athletic trainer must refer the patient to a licensed health care provider. If the patient's condition requires more than 45 days of care, the athletic trainer must either consult a licensed health care provider or refer the patient to such a provider.
DOH has the authority to develop rules and establish licensing, examination, and renewal fees. DOH may issue a license to an applicant who has met the education, training, and examination requirements. DOH may also determine which states have credentialing requirements substantially equivalent to this state and issue licenses to individuals credentialed in those states. An applicant for an athletic training license must have received a bachelor's degree from a four-year institution approved by DOH; pass an examination and pay a license fee as required
by DOH. Passed the state Senate 39-8 on March 12. Passed the state House of Representatives 91-6 on April 5. Senate concurred with the House amendments 41-4 on April 16. Bill has passed both houses and was signed by the governor on May 1. Effective July 1, 2008. |
|
| E2SSB 5659 |
|
Family & medical leave ins |
C 357 L 07 |
5/8/2007 |
Keiser |
|
| Family Leave Bill A new partial wage replacement program is established. Beginning on October 1, 2009, benefits of $250 per week for up to five weeks are paid to individuals who are unable to perform their regular or customary work because they are on family leave.
A joint legislative task force on family leave insurance is created.
The task force is required to study: financing for benefits and administrative costs; program implementation and administration; government efficiencies which improve program administration and reduce program costs; and impacts, if any, on the unemployment compensation system and options for mitigating such impacts. The task force must report its findings and recommendations, including recommendations as to the specific manner in which benefits and administrative costs should be financed, as well as proposed legislation, to the Legislature by January 1, 2008. The provision creating the task force expires July 1, 2009.
Passed the state Senate 32-17 on March 14. Thirty of the 32 Senate supporters of the bill were Democrats. Sheldon and Haugen voted nay. Passed the state House of Representatives 61-36 on April 13. House floor amendment adoped 57-41 on April 20 after the Senate refused to recede a conference committee. The Senate voted 26-21 to concur with the House amendments on April 22. Six Democrats voted against the bill along with all Republicans. The bill has passed both houses and was signed by the governor May 8. Most sections effective July 1, 2008. |
|
| SSB 5731 |
|
Student in high demand field |
C 397 L 07 |
5/9/2007 |
Shin |
Support |
| High Demand Enrollment Committee A committee focused on the education of students in high demand fields is established to: develop a plan to increase the number of baccalaureate degrees granted by Washington
institutions of higher education by 10,000 per year and significantly increase the number of certificates and Associate Degrees granted by 2020 with a special emphasis directed towards high impact, high demand areas of study; develop a marketing project to inform students, parents, and educators of opportunities in
high demand fields; investigate ways to motivate high school and college students to take more math and science courses; and identify ways to enhance partnerships between the business community and institutions of higher education to produce graduates in high demand fields. The committee will be co-chaired by a member of the House of Representatives and a member of the Senate, and consists of two members of the House of Representatives, two members of the Senate, and one representative of each of the following: the Higher Education Coordinating Board; the State Board for Community and Technical Colleges; the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction; the Labor Council; the Council of Presidents; the Prosperity Partnership; the Council of Faculty Representatives; the Workforce Training and Education Coordinating Board; an employer of persons in high demand fields; and a graduate student member of the Washington Student Lobby. Staff and logistical support to the committee will be provided by the Senate Committee Services and the Office of Program Research. The committee will report its findings to the Legislature by December 1, 2007. Passed the state Senate 48-0 on March 12. Passed the state House of Representatives 97-0 on April 11. The Senate concurred with the House amendment on 46-1. The bill has passed both houses was signed by Gov. Christine Gregoire on May 9 at Seattle's Pacific Science Center. The act is effective July 22, 2007. |
|
| ESSB 5770 |
|
Higher edu public works |
C 495 L 07 |
5/15/2007 |
Shin |
Support |
| $55,000 Bid threshold The threshold monetary values for determining whether
building, construction, renovation, remodeling, or demolition must be put out for bid, are raised from $35,000 to $55,000 generally (and $35,000 if the work involves one trade or craft area.) For The Evergreen State College and the regional and state universities, the dollar amounts for prevailing rate of wage and publication requirements are changed to conform to the new bid limits. Clarification is made that prevailing wage laws apply to any project that is publicly bid. Passed the state Senate 48-1 on March 12. Passed the state House of Representatives 80-18 on April 9. The Senate voted 45-4 to concur with House amendments on April 16. The bill has passed both houses was signed by the governor on May 15. |
|
| 2SSB 5806 |
HB 1882 |
Higher education costs |
C 151 L 07 |
4/20/2007 |
Schoesler |
Support |
| Implementing Washington Learns for Higher Ed Tuition increases for resident students are capped at 7 percent per year between the 2007-08 academic year and the 2016-17 academic year. A state goal is adopted that total per-student funding levels (from state appropriations plus tuition and fees) are at least the 60 percentile of total per-student funding at similar institutions in the Global Challenge States. In defining comparable per-student funding levels, the Office of Financial Management (OFM) shall adjust for regional cost of living differences, for differences in program offerings and the relative mix of lower division, upper division, and graduate students, and for accounting and reporting differences among the comparison institutions. Without reducing enrollment levels below Fiscal Year 2007 budgeted levels, the OFM will establish a funding trajectory to reach this goal for each four-year institution and the community and technical college system by Fiscal Year 2017.
The OFM will report to the Governor, the Higher Education Coordinating Board and the Legislature on an annual basis, beginning September 2008, with updated estimates of total per student funding that represents the 60th percentile funding goal and progress that has been made towards that goal for each institution.
The Global Challenge States are defined as the top performing states in the new economy index published by the progressive policy institute. At least once every five years, the OFM must determine whether there should be changes to the list of states. On billing statements to students, each institution must report the full cost of instruction, the amount collected from student tuition and fees, and the difference between the amounts for the full cost of instruction and student tuition and fees. Bill was amended by the Senate Ways and Means Committee: In defining comparable per-student funding levels, the office of financial management shall adjust for regional cost-of-living differences; for differences in program offerings and in the relative mix of lower division, upper division, and graduate students; and for accounting and reporting differences among the comparison institutions.” Passed the state Senate 48-0 on March 13. Passed the state House of Representatives 96-1 on April 6. Effective 90 days after adjournment of the Legislature. Passed both houses and signed into law by the governor on April 20. Effective July 22, 2007. (WSU fiscal note provided) |
|
| E2SSB 5843 |
HB 1541 |
Educational data |
C 401 L 07 |
5/9/2007 |
Oemig |
|
| Educational Data The Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI) is directed to conduct a feasibility study on establishing a longitudinal student-teacher data system. The stated intent of the data system is to establish better linking of data on students, teachers, and student achievement aimed at providing better information regarding effective programs and interventions. Passed the state Senate 46-1 with a floor amendment on March 9. Passed the state House 98-0 with a floor amendment on April 9. Senate concurred with the House amendments 30-18 on April 17. Bill has passed both houses and was signed by Gov. Christine Gregoire May 9 at Pacific Science Center in Seattle. Effective July 22, 2007. (WSU fiscal note prepared, No significant fiscal impact.) |
|
| SB 5879 |
HB 2033 |
Payroll deductions |
C 99 L 07 |
4/18/2007 |
Fairley |
|
| Payroll Deductions Payroll deductions are permitted for retiree organization dues under the same circumstances as deductions to labor and employee organizations. Passed the state Senate 47-0. Passed the state House 97-0. Bill has passed both houses and has been signed by the governor April 18. Effective July 22, 2007. (WSU fiscal note prepared, impact minimal.) |
|
| 2SSB 5995 |
|
Economic development comm |
C 232 L 07 |
4/30/2007 |
Kastama |
|
| Creates Economic Development Commission The Legislature formally creates an economic development commission to provide planning, coordination, evaluation, monitoring, and policy analysis and development for the state economic development system as a whole. The Washington State Economic Development Commission is to consist of 11 voting members and as ex officio non-voting members: the Director of the Department of Community, Trade, and Economic Development; the Director of the Workforce Training and Education Coordinating Board; the Commissioner of the Department of Employment Security; and the chairs and ranking minority members of the House and Senate economic
development committees. It also includes, among voting members, a representative of the four-year state public higher education institutions and a representative of the community colleges. The Executive Director of the commission is to serve as chief executive officer and is to employ such personnel as are necessary and use staff of existing operating agencies. The executive director is appointed by the governor. Bill passed the state Senate 49-0 on March 8. Passed the state House of Representatives 95-0 on April 12. The Senate voted 48-0 to concur with a House striking amendment by Rep. Kenney on April 16. Bill has passed both houses and has been signed by the governor on April 30. (WSU fiscal note provided) |
|
| ESSB 6001 |
|
Climate change |
C 307 L 07 |
5/3/2007 |
Pridemore |
|
Climate Change Establishes state goals to reduce greenhouse gases emissions. Establishes a greenhouse gases emissions performance standard for electric utilities operating in the state. Gov. Gregoire vetoed Section 6 of the bill as "unnecessary". She said the section was inserted when the bill contemplated minor adjustments to the Energy Facility Site Evaluation Council's permit process. But those adjustments were ultimately removed from the bill. Passed the state Senate 35-13 on March 10. Passed the state House 84-14 on April 12. Senate concurred with the House amendments on April 17, 37-10. Effective July 22, has been signed into law but was partially vetoed by the Governor on May 3. (WSU fiscal note prepared, but not applicable to the final bill.
Click here for Governor Gregoire's veto message on the climate change bill. |
|
| ESSB 6023 |
|
Alternative assessments |
C 354 L 07 |
5/8/2007 |
McAuliffe |
|
Certificate of Academic Achievement (CAA) Beginning with the graduating class of 2008 and through no later than the graduating class of 2012, students may graduate from high school without earning a certificate of academic achievement in mathematics. Beginning no later than with the graduating class of 2013, a student must meet the state standards in science in addition to the other content areas.
The governor vetoed sections 9, 10, 11 and 13 of the bill.
Section 8 is structured to point to implementing end-of-course assessments in K-12. Section 10 of the bill provides for the implementation of appeals panels in each education service district for students who have not been successful in meeting state standards through the high school assessment system. The appeals criteria specified in the legislation does not relate to the student’s knowledge and skill of the state standards as the predetermined outcome. The governor disagreed with that approach and vetoed the section. Section 11 of the bill sets forth the threshold for student English skills required for participation in the state assessment system, with the exception that meeting standards through the state assessment system remains a requirement for high school graduation. However, in practice, the governor said the provision of excusing students from the assessments has no effect since the federal statute sets requirements for student participation for federal accountability purposes. Section 13 had an emergency clause. Passed the state Senate 43-4 on March 12. Passed the state House of Representatives 81-17 with floor amendments. Senate concurred with House amendments and sent the measure to the governor on April 22. Bill has been signed into law effective July 22. However, the bill was partially vetoed by the Governor on May 8.
Click here for Governor Gregoire's veto message on the K-12 CAA Bill. |
|
| E2SSB 6117 |
|
Reclaimed water |
C 445 L 07 |
5/11/2007 |
Fraser |
|
Reclaimed Water Bill Requires the state to expand both direct financial support and financial incentives for capital investments in water reuse and reclaimed water. Before the veto, it would have created one taskforce and two sub-taskforces to evaluate and make recommendations on various issues relating to the use of reclaimed water.
The governor vetoed Section 4 of this bill because it would have established procedures for determining when a water reuse would impair existing water rights, and would change the standard for mitigating any impairment. Based on legal advice, the governor said she believed this section could have unintended consequences existing water rights. The remainder of Section 4 of the bill would have created a new to address the state’s water reuse program, including water right impairment issues.
Passed the state Senate 31-14 on March 10. Passed the state House of Representatives 65-32 on April 11. The Senate concurred with the House amendments 32-15 on April 17. Bill has passed both houses and signed into law effective July 22. However, the bill was partially vetoed by the Governor on May 8.
Click here for Governor Gregoire's veto message on the Reclaimed Water Bill. |
|
| SR 8688 |
HR 4661 |
WSU men's basketball team |
S Adopted |
4/21/2007 |
Hatfield |
Strongly Support |
| Senate Resolution Honoring WSU Basketball Excerpts from the resolution: The Washington State University men's basketball team under the guidance of head coach Tony Bennett led Washington State University to success, national recognition, and revitalized pride;
Now, Therefore be it resolved, that the Washington State Senate honor the
outstanding achievement of the Washington State University men's basketball team for its success on the court and in the classroom during the 2007 season; and
be it further resolved, that the Washington State Senate congratulate Head
Coach Tony Bennett for his leadership in driving the Washington State University…Resolution sponsored by senators Hatfield, Hewitt, Parlette, Carrell, Brown, Schoesler, Rasmussen, Zarelli, Marr and McCaslin Resolution adopted on a voice vote by the state Senate April 21. Reaffirmed by the WSU Board of Regents. |
|
| SGA 9115 |
|
FRANCOIS FORGETTE |
S Confirmed |
4/4/2007 |
|
Support |
| FRANCOIS FORGETTE, appointed May 11, 2005, for a term ending September 30, 2007, as a Member of the Board of Regents, Washington State University. Recommended Feb. 20 by the Senate Higher Education Committee for confirmation as an appointee to the WSU Board of Regents. Confirmed by the state Senate 49-0 on April 4. |
|
| SGA 9179 |
|
KYLE SMITH |
S Confirmed |
4/4/2007 |
|
Support |
| KYLE SMITH, appointed July 01, 2006, for a term ending June 30, 2007, as a Member of the Board of Regents, Washington State University. Recommended Feb. 22 by the Senate Higher Education Committee for confirmation as an appointee to the WSU Board of Regents. Confirmed by the state Senate 49-0 on April 4. |
|
| SGA 9196 |
|
MICHAEL WORTHY |
S Rules |
3/22/2007 |
|
Support |
| MICHAEL WORTHY, appointed October 12, 2006, for a term ending September 30, 2012, as a Member of the Board of Regents, Washington State University. A confirmation hearing has been scheduled for the coming week in front of the Senate Higher Education Committee.. Recommended by the Senate Higher Education Committee March 22 for confirmation as an appointee to the WSU Board of Regents. |
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