Bills that are still ALIVE:
SB 5515 gives DCYF licensing duties for Washington’s twelve boarding schools, except those accredited by nationally-recognized accreditors that accredit dormitories. The hearing is scheduled for Saturday, April 1, at 9:00 am in the Appropriations Committee. Please use this link TODAY to sign up to testify in person or virtually, provide comments, or submit a position on this bill.
SB 5315 defines responsibilities for NonPublic Agency Schools, Districts, and OSPI. This bill has been amended to change the name from “NPA” to “Education Center” and reframe the law concerning “Education Centers” to include “NPAs.” WFIS is analyzing the differences between the original and the amendment. The hearing is scheduled for Saturday, April 1, at 9:00 am in the Appropriations Committee. Please use this link TODAY to sign up to testify in person or virtually, provide comments, or submit a position on this bill.
HB 1377 allows all OSPI Approved clock hour providers to provide CCDEI clock hour training. Clock-hour providers will submit all CCDEI courses to the Professional Educators Standards Board for approval. Teachers renewing their state certification after July 1, 2023, will need 15 CCDEI clock hours. This bill was heard in Way and Means, but a vote has yet to be scheduled.
HB 1477 expands eligibility for working connections and permits individuals to apply for any Working Families Tax Credit payments they didn’t claim for the last three years. Waiting on a vote in Ways and Means.
HB 1550 defines TK and separates TK out of Basic Ed. The bill has been amended and reamended and is moving forward at the expense of other early learning programs.
SB 5048 allows public school students to take free college-in-the-classroom courses. It does not include private school students.
SB 5225 expands Working Connections eligibility to include childcare teachers and staff. However, more is needed to support most teachers.
SB 5315 defines responsibilities for NonPublic Agency Schools, Districts, and OSPI. This bill has been amended to change the name from “NPA” to “Education Center” and reframe the law concerning “Education Centers” to include “NPAs.” WFIS is analyzing the differences between the original and the amendment.
SB 5316 improves some of the issues associated with the DCYF background check system by eliminating costs.
Bills that DIED:
HB 1479 limits isolation and restraint of students and requires schools to report if either is used.
SB 5024 establishes a Parent’s Bill of Rights.
SB 5020 changes the compulsory education age from 8 to 6 years old.
SB 5059 Requires prejudgement interest to be awarded to victims.
School Safety Bills:
HB 1240 bans the sale of assault weapons in Washington and outlaws the sale of certain parts and gun accessories used to make or modify certain guns. This bill has passed the Senate Law & Justice Committee and should move soon to the Senate floor for a vote.
HB 1143 enhances the requirements for purchasing or transferring firearms by requiring a permit to purchase firearms, firearms safety training, and a 10-day waiting period. It also prohibits firearms transfers before completion of a background check and updates and creates consistency in firearms transfer and background check procedures. This bill has also passed the Senate Law & Justice Committee.
