Democratic candidate for Governor Jay Inslee leads Republican candidate Rob McKenna in the most recent vote counts. Expect this race to go back and forth, as McKenna was leading when initial returns were posted. Inslee's lead is about 53,000 votes as of 9 p.m.
With most counties reporting results, including King County; it appears that Snohomish, Thurston and Yakima counties are still waiting to post.
In the "too close to call" races, Representative Kathy Haigh, D-35th, is narrowly leading Republican challenger Dan Griffey, Republican. Haigh is the current chair of the House Education Appropriations & Oversight Committee and a former school director.
Rep. Mark Hargrove, R-47th, trails his challenger by a slight margin, and incumbent Rep. Katrina Asay, R-30th, is down by about 2,000 votes.
Of the Senate hotly contested races, Rep. Barbara Bailey, Republican, leads incumbent Democrat Mary Margaret Haugen by about 1,300 votes. Haugen chairs the Senate Transportation committee and is a former school director. Rep. Tim Probst, Democrat, leads incumbent Don Benton, R-17th, by a narrow margin of about 100 votes.
Two of the highly watched races - the 1st and the 5th - show Democrats leading at this early time. Sen. Rosemary McAuliffe, has a 57% vote to Republican Dawn McCravey. McAuliffe is a former Northshore school director, while McCravey serves on the Northshore board.
In the 5th, which has an open Senate seat, Democrat Mark Mullet leads Republican Brad Toft. In the 5th district open House seat, Issaquah school director Chad Magendanz is leading by a 54% margin.
It's a dead heat between Ridgefield school director Julie Olson, Republican, and teacher Monica Stonier, Democrat, for the seat that became open when Probst decided to challenge Benton.
Republican Rep. Bruce Dammeier is cruising to an easy win for the open Senate seat in the 25th legislative district. His is the first "flip" in seats from Democratic to Republican control. Dammeier is a former Puyallup school director.
Rep. Andy Billig, Democrat, is looking good to retain the 3rd legislative district vacated by Sen. Lisa Brown. His win would keep the seat in Democratic control. And in southwest Washington, Annette Cleveland looks poised to hold the Senate seat in the 49th for Democrats.
Former Rep. Dawn Morrell, Democrat, is leading her Republican challenger for Dammeier's former House seat.
In what might be an upset tonight, Republican challenger Brad Hawkins is leading incumbent House member Mike Armstrong. Armstrong is a former Wenatchee school director; Hawkins serves on the Eastmont school board. Hawkins leads by nearly 2,000 votes at this time.
Look for more results in another hour or so, with an emphasis on the open seat count.
Updates on the Legislature and state government from the Washington State School Directors' Association.
Tuesday, November 6, 2012
Early Returns Posted Soon
Results are not posted yet, but are expected around 8:15 p.m. for early returns. "First Reading" will report results as they become available.
Keep in mind that in addition to the governor's race, half of the senate is up for re-election and all 98 of the House seats are on the ballot.
Going into the 2012 election, Senate Democrats hold a 27-22 majority and House Democrats have a 56-42 majority over Republicans.
In the Senate, seven seats are "open" - five of which were held previously by Democrats and two by Republicans.
In the House, depending on how you want to count them, a total of 18 seats are technically "open." This is partly because two seats fell victim to redistricting. Of those open seats, put 11 in the Democrat column and 7 in the Republican column to start tonight's races.
In between posts, check the Washington Secretary of State's web site for a quick glance at how the state, legislative and general election ballot issues are doing.
Keep in mind that in addition to the governor's race, half of the senate is up for re-election and all 98 of the House seats are on the ballot.
Going into the 2012 election, Senate Democrats hold a 27-22 majority and House Democrats have a 56-42 majority over Republicans.
In the Senate, seven seats are "open" - five of which were held previously by Democrats and two by Republicans.
In the House, depending on how you want to count them, a total of 18 seats are technically "open." This is partly because two seats fell victim to redistricting. Of those open seats, put 11 in the Democrat column and 7 in the Republican column to start tonight's races.
In between posts, check the Washington Secretary of State's web site for a quick glance at how the state, legislative and general election ballot issues are doing.
Tuesday, May 8, 2012
State Board debates school district waivers - again
The State Board of Education is once again discussing changes to administrative rules related to school district requests for waivers from the standard 180-day requirement in statute.
SBE staff recommended today that the SBE proceed with rule making, including capping the number of waiver days to 5, and making what are now called the Option 1 waivers reserved for only local or temporary characteristics or circumstances that warrant an exception to the 180-day requirement. In addition, staff recommended criteria, including the use of strategies that are evidence- or research-based and likely to lead to the attainment of the goal, as part of an evaluation prior to approval.
Staff are suggesting that a new waiver - called an innovation waiver - would be created to address potential requests for specific schools (not school districts) who might need more than five days of waivers. Staff also recommended that the Fast Track waiver process adopted two years ago be merged into the Option 1 waivers.
SBE members asked many questions, and it isn't clear what direction the SBE may take. Staff are pushing that they get approval to file what is called a CR 101, that signals their intent to adopt the rule changes. A decision on that will be made at tomorrow's SBE meeting in Yakima.
SBE staff recommended today that the SBE proceed with rule making, including capping the number of waiver days to 5, and making what are now called the Option 1 waivers reserved for only local or temporary characteristics or circumstances that warrant an exception to the 180-day requirement. In addition, staff recommended criteria, including the use of strategies that are evidence- or research-based and likely to lead to the attainment of the goal, as part of an evaluation prior to approval.
Staff are suggesting that a new waiver - called an innovation waiver - would be created to address potential requests for specific schools (not school districts) who might need more than five days of waivers. Staff also recommended that the Fast Track waiver process adopted two years ago be merged into the Option 1 waivers.
SBE members asked many questions, and it isn't clear what direction the SBE may take. Staff are pushing that they get approval to file what is called a CR 101, that signals their intent to adopt the rule changes. A decision on that will be made at tomorrow's SBE meeting in Yakima.
Thursday, May 3, 2012
Sen. Lisa Brown won't seek re-election
Senate Democratic Majority Leader Lisa Brown announced today that she will not seek re-election this November.
The 20-year legislator represents the 3rd legislative district (Spokane). Brown was elected to the House in 1992, and to the Senate in 1996. She served as the Senate Ways & Means Chair before becoming the majority leader in 2004.
Rep. Andy Billig, a Democrat from the same district, is likely to announce for Brown's seat. The race has already drawn city council member Nancy McLaughlin, a Republican.
Brown joins five of her Senate colleagues (four Democrats and one Republican) who also have opted to leave the state Legislature. Half of the Senate is up for re-election, while all 98 seats in the House are up.
The 20-year legislator represents the 3rd legislative district (Spokane). Brown was elected to the House in 1992, and to the Senate in 1996. She served as the Senate Ways & Means Chair before becoming the majority leader in 2004.
Rep. Andy Billig, a Democrat from the same district, is likely to announce for Brown's seat. The race has already drawn city council member Nancy McLaughlin, a Republican.
Brown joins five of her Senate colleagues (four Democrats and one Republican) who also have opted to leave the state Legislature. Half of the Senate is up for re-election, while all 98 seats in the House are up.
Wednesday, April 11, 2012
Senate takes up compromise health benefits bill
The striking amendment is fresh off the copier and now on the floor.
The bill does not go as far as school districts may have wanted, some of the alternatives were far worse. A summary will be provided in the next legislative update.
The amended bill passed 25-20 (with 1 absent and 3 excused). It now moves to the House floor for consideration.
The bill does not go as far as school districts may have wanted, some of the alternatives were far worse. A summary will be provided in the next legislative update.
The amended bill passed 25-20 (with 1 absent and 3 excused). It now moves to the House floor for consideration.
Senate reconvenes, begins passing bills
It's 2:30 a.m. And the Senate has returned to the floor with a list of five bills to pass.
They took up the constitutional debt limit ESJR 8221 and are moving on to tax preferences.
They took up the constitutional debt limit ESJR 8221 and are moving on to tax preferences.
Governor calls 2nd special session
As predicted, lawmakers failed to reach an agreement by midnight, April 10, pushing the Legislature into overtime - again.
A little after midnight, the Governor announced to the media that she would be calling another special session immediately.
While constitutionally the Governor can't limit the topics or the time to less than 30 days, Gov. Chris Gregoire pointedly said that she was giving lawmakers more time to pass the supplemental operating and capital budgets, along with a limited number of policy bills. The latter includes one that has eaten up most of the time today and is still in dispute - what to do with K-12 health benefits system.
The details aren't on paper yet, but the rumor basics are that school districts and their benefit providers will need to report certain data to the Health Care Authority and the Office of Insurance Commissioner; failure by school districts to report would default employees into the PEBB.
The big hold up is over what "trigger" to use on districts that fail to meet the four benchmarks:
1. Offer a high deductible with an Health Savings Account;
2. Offer a plan where premiums aren't more than the state PEBB plan;
3. Ensure that premiums for family coverage are not more than three times the employee-only coverage; and
4. Complete a competitive procurement.
Negotiations continue ...
A little after midnight, the Governor announced to the media that she would be calling another special session immediately.
While constitutionally the Governor can't limit the topics or the time to less than 30 days, Gov. Chris Gregoire pointedly said that she was giving lawmakers more time to pass the supplemental operating and capital budgets, along with a limited number of policy bills. The latter includes one that has eaten up most of the time today and is still in dispute - what to do with K-12 health benefits system.
The details aren't on paper yet, but the rumor basics are that school districts and their benefit providers will need to report certain data to the Health Care Authority and the Office of Insurance Commissioner; failure by school districts to report would default employees into the PEBB.
The big hold up is over what "trigger" to use on districts that fail to meet the four benchmarks:
1. Offer a high deductible with an Health Savings Account;
2. Offer a plan where premiums aren't more than the state PEBB plan;
3. Ensure that premiums for family coverage are not more than three times the employee-only coverage; and
4. Complete a competitive procurement.
Negotiations continue ...
Monday, April 9, 2012
Positive signs emerging in Legislature
In what may be the most positive sign of the night, House Capital Budget chair Hans Dunshee, D-Snohomish, and ranking Republican Judy Warnick of Moses Lake, just walked into the Senate chambers with non-partisan budget staff.
Legislators have been clear that there will be no deal on the capital budget until the operating budget is agreed to. In addition, lawmakers have said that there will be no operating budget agreement until there is agreement on the three reform bills that Republicans and their three coalition Democrats have said is needed to "go home." But before we read too much into it, they might just be trying to get a jump on the budget so they don't have to repeat the overnighter from last year.
Meanwhile, Sen. Rodney Tom, D-Bellevue, went home to be with family on Friday and hasn't returned. He is expected to be available tomorrow. And Senator Mike Hewitt, R-Walla Walla, dropped by the Capitol today less than a week from having major surgery to remove a tumor.
Of course, anything can happen. While Senate Majority Leader Lisa Brown, D-Spokane, said they had an agreement about an hour ago, less than 20 minutes later Senate Republicans said there was no agreement. Others in the know are either tight-lipped or nowhere to be found.
The Senate released a list of bills they planned to take up this evening, and around 9:30 p.m. moved to suspend the rule to allow the Senate to work past 10 p.m. Lawmakers who have been milling about all day are starting to get rummy, with a group of Senate Republicans just recently singing the march of guards from the Wizard of Oz as they returned to the Senate chambers.
Update: senators are leaving the building; returning tomorrow at 9 a.m.
The House adjourned earlier today without passing any bills. They will reconvene Tuesday at 9 a.m.
Legislators have been clear that there will be no deal on the capital budget until the operating budget is agreed to. In addition, lawmakers have said that there will be no operating budget agreement until there is agreement on the three reform bills that Republicans and their three coalition Democrats have said is needed to "go home." But before we read too much into it, they might just be trying to get a jump on the budget so they don't have to repeat the overnighter from last year.
Meanwhile, Sen. Rodney Tom, D-Bellevue, went home to be with family on Friday and hasn't returned. He is expected to be available tomorrow. And Senator Mike Hewitt, R-Walla Walla, dropped by the Capitol today less than a week from having major surgery to remove a tumor.
Of course, anything can happen. While Senate Majority Leader Lisa Brown, D-Spokane, said they had an agreement about an hour ago, less than 20 minutes later Senate Republicans said there was no agreement. Others in the know are either tight-lipped or nowhere to be found.
The Senate released a list of bills they planned to take up this evening, and around 9:30 p.m. moved to suspend the rule to allow the Senate to work past 10 p.m. Lawmakers who have been milling about all day are starting to get rummy, with a group of Senate Republicans just recently singing the march of guards from the Wizard of Oz as they returned to the Senate chambers.
Update: senators are leaving the building; returning tomorrow at 9 a.m.
The House adjourned earlier today without passing any bills. They will reconvene Tuesday at 9 a.m.
House adjourns for day, Senate floor session scheduled
Day 29 of the 30-day special session was full of hurry up and wait moments, marked by hours of negotiating in the Governor's office by key leadership and budget negotiators.
As an example, the House Ways and Means Committee scheduled an executive session for noon today. After playing a game of room switch, going back and forth between buildings, the committee reported a time change to 3 p.m. A while later, it was changed to 4 p.m., then TVW reported a 6 p.m. (unconfirmed) meeting. Finally the notice just read "postponed" indefinitely, and then about 8:20 p.m., the meeting was cancelled.
Negotiators joined the Governor at 12:30 p.m. today and met until about 3:30 p.m. They took a break, then resumed meetings, telling their respective caucus members to return by 5:45 p.m. that stretched beyond 7 p.m. They went back into the Governor's conference room at 8 p.m.
So ... What are they doing?
Three reform issues: changes to the early retirement option for new hires, a four-year balanced budget, and changes to the K-12 health benefits system (SSB 5940). Word on the street now if that they are briefing parties on the latest health benefits alternative. WSSDA weighed in earlier in the day, providing information to all four corners regarding district concerns
and suggestions.
In an effort to pacify WEA and to support better benefit options for classified employees, one can only hope that the needs and possible costs to school districts will remain a factor in the deliberations.
As an example, the House Ways and Means Committee scheduled an executive session for noon today. After playing a game of room switch, going back and forth between buildings, the committee reported a time change to 3 p.m. A while later, it was changed to 4 p.m., then TVW reported a 6 p.m. (unconfirmed) meeting. Finally the notice just read "postponed" indefinitely, and then about 8:20 p.m., the meeting was cancelled.
Negotiators joined the Governor at 12:30 p.m. today and met until about 3:30 p.m. They took a break, then resumed meetings, telling their respective caucus members to return by 5:45 p.m. that stretched beyond 7 p.m. They went back into the Governor's conference room at 8 p.m.
So ... What are they doing?
Three reform issues: changes to the early retirement option for new hires, a four-year balanced budget, and changes to the K-12 health benefits system (SSB 5940). Word on the street now if that they are briefing parties on the latest health benefits alternative. WSSDA weighed in earlier in the day, providing information to all four corners regarding district concerns
and suggestions.
In an effort to pacify WEA and to support better benefit options for classified employees, one can only hope that the needs and possible costs to school districts will remain a factor in the deliberations.
Saturday, April 7, 2012
Senate convenes for floor action
Health care for school employees is up for those who are interested.
Update: Senator Conway striker failed 16-27. Zarelli version that passed the Senate Ways and Means Committee last night will pass. Vote: 29-17-3.
WSSDA has offered several changes to the bill for consideration in the negotiations to follow with the House.
Update: Senator Conway striker failed 16-27. Zarelli version that passed the Senate Ways and Means Committee last night will pass. Vote: 29-17-3.
WSSDA has offered several changes to the bill for consideration in the negotiations to follow with the House.
Friday, April 6, 2012
Senate budget committee in turmoil over K-12 health benefits
The Senate Ways and Means Committee heard a number of bills this afternoon, including the House supplemental budget (HB 2127). The latter was probably one of the least controversial bills up for public comment.
Of the most controversial bills is the K-12 health benefits bill, which has morphed several times over the afternoon and evening. Right now, the Senate budget committee is waiting for whatever amendments might come forward that the majority can vote for.
Tune in to TVW about 6:30 pm to see the start of the breakdown in the committee, with Senator Brown and Senator Zarelli, among others, facing off on what is holding the legislature in session longer than it needs to be.
The latest iteration of the bill, which remains unseen to those of us in the audience, would require school districts and their providers to report certain data to the Office of the Insurance Commissioner. Failure to report the data would default all school district employees into the PEBB. The second trigger would occur if 75 percent of school districts fail to meet three criteria by 2015, and would send any members of the largest classified bargaining unit to a classified school employees benefits system, starting 2017. Sound confusing? You bet.
For school directors who participated in the advisory group over the interim as the Health Care Authority drafted its report, we were hopeful but a bit anxious, that a consolidated health benefits system would result in better equity for all employees, more uniform but high quality health plans, and the opportunity for some savings ala the Oregon experience. It is hard to see how districts win or what the benefit is in this most recent "compromise" bill.
Stay tuned for next steps. And TVW junkies ... Tune in.
Of the most controversial bills is the K-12 health benefits bill, which has morphed several times over the afternoon and evening. Right now, the Senate budget committee is waiting for whatever amendments might come forward that the majority can vote for.
Tune in to TVW about 6:30 pm to see the start of the breakdown in the committee, with Senator Brown and Senator Zarelli, among others, facing off on what is holding the legislature in session longer than it needs to be.
The latest iteration of the bill, which remains unseen to those of us in the audience, would require school districts and their providers to report certain data to the Office of the Insurance Commissioner. Failure to report the data would default all school district employees into the PEBB. The second trigger would occur if 75 percent of school districts fail to meet three criteria by 2015, and would send any members of the largest classified bargaining unit to a classified school employees benefits system, starting 2017. Sound confusing? You bet.
For school directors who participated in the advisory group over the interim as the Health Care Authority drafted its report, we were hopeful but a bit anxious, that a consolidated health benefits system would result in better equity for all employees, more uniform but high quality health plans, and the opportunity for some savings ala the Oregon experience. It is hard to see how districts win or what the benefit is in this most recent "compromise" bill.
Stay tuned for next steps. And TVW junkies ... Tune in.
Senate skirmish latest challenge to civility
What started as a routine motion to go to ease at noon, subject to the call of the Senate President, turned into another altercation between Senate Democrats and Republicans when Sen. Mark Schoesler, R-Ritzville, moved that the Senate adjourn until Monday at 10 a.m.
Speaking strongly against the second motion, Senator Lisa Brown, D-Spokane, lambasted members for wanting to leave with so much work left unfinished.
This was countered by the argument that the Senate Ways and Means had scheduled a number of bills for public hearing today at 1 pm and that work would continue. But there is concern about working over the holiday.
Schoesler conceded the motion to go to ease, which actually took precedent over the over motion, but warned against a rumor to put the Senate under the "call of the Senate," which would put the body essentially in lock down until business was concluded. Several members rose on points of personal privilege to relay their plans for time with their families over this religious holiday.
The Senate went at ease, subject to the call.
Speaking strongly against the second motion, Senator Lisa Brown, D-Spokane, lambasted members for wanting to leave with so much work left unfinished.
This was countered by the argument that the Senate Ways and Means had scheduled a number of bills for public hearing today at 1 pm and that work would continue. But there is concern about working over the holiday.
Schoesler conceded the motion to go to ease, which actually took precedent over the over motion, but warned against a rumor to put the Senate under the "call of the Senate," which would put the body essentially in lock down until business was concluded. Several members rose on points of personal privilege to relay their plans for time with their families over this religious holiday.
The Senate went at ease, subject to the call.
Wednesday, April 4, 2012
House Democrats release new budget proposal
House Democrats unveiled a new supplemental budget this morning.
The proposed striking amendment makes no cuts to K-12 or higher education, and adds funding for several bills that have been enacted and signed into law by the Governor.
A copy of the proposal is available on the LEAP web site. Some of the main components are:
- $5.7 million for teacher/principal evaluation implementation;
- $2.0 million for a one-time urban school turnaround, for two schools in the Seattle district. The budget proviso includes other stipulations, including that schools must be the lowest-performing schools located in the same community with a significant education gap;
- $1.5 million for collaborative schools (HB 2799);
- $1.0 million for WAKIDS (HB 2586);
- $650,000 to the Office of the Insurance Commissioner for oversight of HB 2829, the House proposal for K-12 health benefits;
- $250,000 for implementation of HB 2337, the open source curriculum bill;
- $25,000 for the Professional Educator Standards Board to develop educator interpreter standards and assessments.
The budget proposal leaves about $300 million in reserves, with the balance in the rainy day fund. It relies on an accounting mechanism to leave about $238 million in the general fund before distribution to local governments and some transfers from dedicated accounts to the general fund to help close the projected $500 million budget shortfall.
The proposed striking amendment makes no cuts to K-12 or higher education, and adds funding for several bills that have been enacted and signed into law by the Governor.
A copy of the proposal is available on the LEAP web site. Some of the main components are:
- $5.7 million for teacher/principal evaluation implementation;
- $2.0 million for a one-time urban school turnaround, for two schools in the Seattle district. The budget proviso includes other stipulations, including that schools must be the lowest-performing schools located in the same community with a significant education gap;
- $1.5 million for collaborative schools (HB 2799);
- $1.0 million for WAKIDS (HB 2586);
- $650,000 to the Office of the Insurance Commissioner for oversight of HB 2829, the House proposal for K-12 health benefits;
- $250,000 for implementation of HB 2337, the open source curriculum bill;
- $25,000 for the Professional Educator Standards Board to develop educator interpreter standards and assessments.
The budget proposal leaves about $300 million in reserves, with the balance in the rainy day fund. It relies on an accounting mechanism to leave about $238 million in the general fund before distribution to local governments and some transfers from dedicated accounts to the general fund to help close the projected $500 million budget shortfall.
Thursday, March 8, 2012
House passes budget bill (ESB 5967) - vote of 53-45
The House has just passed the supplemental operating by a vote of 53-45 on a nearly party line vote.
Democrats voting with Republicans against ESB 5967 include: Reps. Mark Miloscia of Federal Way and Deb Eddy of Kirkland.
It has been sent to the Senate for their consideration.
Democrats voting with Republicans against ESB 5967 include: Reps. Mark Miloscia of Federal Way and Deb Eddy of Kirkland.
It has been sent to the Senate for their consideration.
The big budget debate? The apportionment shift.
Speakers for the House Democrats' budget proposal support using the apportionment shift to help close the budget gap. They also argue that the cuts would be too deep and would damage the state's ability to protect our most vulnerable.
The House Republicans argue that the Legislature should live within its means and that the shift violates basic accounting principles.
Just as way of background, WSSDA members responded to a survey over the weekend that asked about the apportionment shift and National Board bonuses. More than 200 members responded, with about 65 percent agreeing with the apportionment shift, about 25 percent supporting a small level of cuts to K-12 but no apportionment shift, and about 10 percent saying they could go with either the apportionment shift or about $50 million in cuts.
On the national board bonuses, members were split nearly evenly on the three different proposals. The House proposal under consideration makes no cuts to the bonuses.
The Republican amendment failed garner enough votes. Moving on to final passage ...
The House Republicans argue that the Legislature should live within its means and that the shift violates basic accounting principles.
Just as way of background, WSSDA members responded to a survey over the weekend that asked about the apportionment shift and National Board bonuses. More than 200 members responded, with about 65 percent agreeing with the apportionment shift, about 25 percent supporting a small level of cuts to K-12 but no apportionment shift, and about 10 percent saying they could go with either the apportionment shift or about $50 million in cuts.
On the national board bonuses, members were split nearly evenly on the three different proposals. The House proposal under consideration makes no cuts to the bonuses.
The Republican amendment failed garner enough votes. Moving on to final passage ...
House takes up operating budget bill
The House has just started work on ESB 5967, the supplemental operating budget.
Rep. Ross Hunter, D-Medina, has put his striking amendment on the floor for consideration, and Rep. Gary Alexander, R-Olympia, has moved his amendment which would cut $330 million more from programs and not do an apportionment shift.
Rep. Ross Hunter, D-Medina, has put his striking amendment on the floor for consideration, and Rep. Gary Alexander, R-Olympia, has moved his amendment which would cut $330 million more from programs and not do an apportionment shift.
Other budget bits
The "Hunter" budget proposal also includes a 21-member task force on education funding.
Members include 12 legislators, 6 each from the House and from the Senate; five members representing the Governor's budget office, OSPI, the Department of Early Learning, the executive director of the Higher Education Coordinating Board or its successor, and the executive director of the State Board of Education; and four members selected by the Governor, although two of the four must represent the business and the labor communities.
Schools districts - either in the form of directors or school superintendents - are not named, although legislators indicated they would be included in any task forces or ad hoc committees. If the budget bill goes into negotiations with the Senate, it is possible this could get changed. WSSDA has been working on this issue and will continue to press for school director voices to be members of the task force.
Another bill we have been working on today is SHB 2817, the bill that would repeal I-728. WSSDA and others have been talking with legislators about the potential impact a repeal of the class size initiative would have on school district levy bases. Rep. Marcie Maxwell, D-Renton, is offering an amendment that would signal that the funding would still be considered part of the levy base even if the Initiative is repealed. Chair Ross Hunter, D-Medina, seems amenable to the amendment.
Finally, both the House and Senate are still committed to a capital budget. Rep. Hans Dunshee, D-Snohomish, has two possible strikers on the floor calendar. His Republican counterpart, Rep. Judy Warnick, D-Moses Lake, also has her own version of the budget bills. The issues will continue to get worked, but key to having a capital budget will be passage of a bill that would reduce - via constitutional amendment - the debt limit from 9 percent to 8 percent. The measure would go to the voters in November for approval.
Members include 12 legislators, 6 each from the House and from the Senate; five members representing the Governor's budget office, OSPI, the Department of Early Learning, the executive director of the Higher Education Coordinating Board or its successor, and the executive director of the State Board of Education; and four members selected by the Governor, although two of the four must represent the business and the labor communities.
Schools districts - either in the form of directors or school superintendents - are not named, although legislators indicated they would be included in any task forces or ad hoc committees. If the budget bill goes into negotiations with the Senate, it is possible this could get changed. WSSDA has been working on this issue and will continue to press for school director voices to be members of the task force.
Another bill we have been working on today is SHB 2817, the bill that would repeal I-728. WSSDA and others have been talking with legislators about the potential impact a repeal of the class size initiative would have on school district levy bases. Rep. Marcie Maxwell, D-Renton, is offering an amendment that would signal that the funding would still be considered part of the levy base even if the Initiative is repealed. Chair Ross Hunter, D-Medina, seems amenable to the amendment.
Finally, both the House and Senate are still committed to a capital budget. Rep. Hans Dunshee, D-Snohomish, has two possible strikers on the floor calendar. His Republican counterpart, Rep. Judy Warnick, D-Moses Lake, also has her own version of the budget bills. The issues will continue to get worked, but key to having a capital budget will be passage of a bill that would reduce - via constitutional amendment - the debt limit from 9 percent to 8 percent. The measure would go to the voters in November for approval.
Day 60 with less than 10 hours to go
House Democrats unveiled a striking amendment to ESB 5967, the Senate's supplemental operating budget, early this morning. As previously mentioned, documents are available on the LEAP web site.
Similar to the Senate Democrats' proposal, the striking amendment would make no cuts to K-12 or higher education. It relies on an apportionment shift of $330 million, from June 30 to July 1, 2013, but does not change the LEA payment schedule. It also does not propose a change to the levy lid or decrease the LEA percentage, as was proposed in the original House Democratic proposal.
House Republicans have countered with their own amendment, available on leg.wa.gov under ESB 5967, which would remove the apportionment shift and make about $330 million in cuts. In addition to making some reductions in K-12, the House Republican proposal would make changes to the social service safety net, eliminating the Disability Lifeline, for example.
According to sources, ideas included in the House Republican striker have been floated with the 27 Senators who passed a budget off the Senate floor last week, and if the amendment was adopted to the House Democrat's floor striker, then everyone would go home tonight.
For their own part, House Democrats are trying to stay positive and plan to send the budget bill back to the Senate today. This would leave the Senate with three options:
- concur and be done, with a few housekeeping bills;
- do not concur, and ask the House to recede from their amendment, virtually assuring a special session; or
- do not concur and ask for a conference committee, again sending the budget issue into conference committee and a special session.
The Governor is leaning on lawmakers to get their work done before 11:59 p.m., but has said that she will call them back in if they don't reach agreement. "Across the board cuts are not acceptable," the Governor told reporters yesterday. But she also said she wanted to keep the pressure on so they continued to talk with each other.
More to come.
Similar to the Senate Democrats' proposal, the striking amendment would make no cuts to K-12 or higher education. It relies on an apportionment shift of $330 million, from June 30 to July 1, 2013, but does not change the LEA payment schedule. It also does not propose a change to the levy lid or decrease the LEA percentage, as was proposed in the original House Democratic proposal.
House Republicans have countered with their own amendment, available on leg.wa.gov under ESB 5967, which would remove the apportionment shift and make about $330 million in cuts. In addition to making some reductions in K-12, the House Republican proposal would make changes to the social service safety net, eliminating the Disability Lifeline, for example.
According to sources, ideas included in the House Republican striker have been floated with the 27 Senators who passed a budget off the Senate floor last week, and if the amendment was adopted to the House Democrat's floor striker, then everyone would go home tonight.
For their own part, House Democrats are trying to stay positive and plan to send the budget bill back to the Senate today. This would leave the Senate with three options:
- concur and be done, with a few housekeeping bills;
- do not concur, and ask the House to recede from their amendment, virtually assuring a special session; or
- do not concur and ask for a conference committee, again sending the budget issue into conference committee and a special session.
The Governor is leaning on lawmakers to get their work done before 11:59 p.m., but has said that she will call them back in if they don't reach agreement. "Across the board cuts are not acceptable," the Governor told reporters yesterday. But she also said she wanted to keep the pressure on so they continued to talk with each other.
More to come.
House Democrats offer alternative to Senate budget
House Democrats have an alternative to ESB 5967, the Senate budget. Documents are available on the LEAP site, but in short it mirrors the Senate D budget in many ways. Here is the agency detail - and a quick summary.
- Makes no cuts (at all) to K-12 or Higher Education.
- Shifts the apportionment payment but not the LEA payments.
- Includes money for the urban schools initiative ($2 million), Gov. Chris Gregoire's school/university partnerships bill ($1.5M) and $5.7 million for the teacher/principal evaluation system (the amount the fiscal note calls for).
- Leaves a fund balance of about $350 million.
The alternative does not shift pension payments or merge the LEOFF 1 and 2 plans, as proposed in the Senate budget.
Expectations are for the House to take up the bill today, and send it into conference committee for negotiations.
The question is still where the 25th vote in the Senate will come from with an apportionment shift - which Senate Republicans have objected to - but there is some hope that with enough pressure to avoid a special session, the vote will come.
For education advocates, regardless of personal feelings about the apportionment shift, this is again a "fund education first" type of statement by legislators. That kind of stance shouldn't go unrecognized.
It is urgent public schools advocates make contact with their legislators if they haven't heard from you recently. And, as silly as it sounds, legislators do count the number of notes they receive in their inbox or from phone calls. So please, take a moment to review the latest budget proposal and make your voice heard today.
Tuesday, March 6, 2012
Senate postpones K-12 health benefits, Governor's school partnerships bill
The Senate has scheduled SSB 6442, a bill that would consolidate health benefits under a state-appointed governing board, for potential floor action.
The Senate Democrats and Republicans returned from caucus, where they were discussing the bill. However, instead of taking up the health benefits bill, they moved to another bill on the list relating to judicial issues and passed it.
Also on the schedule this afternoon was a bill that would put in place a pilot program that would allow school districts with some of the lowest persistently achieving schools to partner with colleges of education to increase student achievement. The pilots are for five years. Partnerships selected that don't receive money would be eligible for some waivers from the State Board of Education.
ESHB 2799 would allow OSPI to select up to six partner school projects, of which three would be eligible for funding. The House budget bill includes $1.5 million for the pilot projects.
Instead of taking action, Senate Democrats adjourned to 9:30 a.m. Wednesday, with a leadership meeting. Stay tuned!
Meanwhile, the House is at ease, subject to the call of the Speaker. Lawmakers have been focused on agreeing with changes made in the opposite chamber, and trying to get housekeeping issues out of the way.
The Senate Democrats and Republicans returned from caucus, where they were discussing the bill. However, instead of taking up the health benefits bill, they moved to another bill on the list relating to judicial issues and passed it.
Also on the schedule this afternoon was a bill that would put in place a pilot program that would allow school districts with some of the lowest persistently achieving schools to partner with colleges of education to increase student achievement. The pilots are for five years. Partnerships selected that don't receive money would be eligible for some waivers from the State Board of Education.
ESHB 2799 would allow OSPI to select up to six partner school projects, of which three would be eligible for funding. The House budget bill includes $1.5 million for the pilot projects.
Instead of taking action, Senate Democrats adjourned to 9:30 a.m. Wednesday, with a leadership meeting. Stay tuned!
Meanwhile, the House is at ease, subject to the call of the Speaker. Lawmakers have been focused on agreeing with changes made in the opposite chamber, and trying to get housekeeping issues out of the way.
Friday, March 2, 2012
Senate gets closer to budget vote
For those of you still following the drama in the Senate chambers, Majority Leader Tracey Eide, D-Federal Way, just requested that a number of amendments be withdrawn, leaving just two on the bar for debate BEFORE they start on the floor speeches about the budget. Like all the other amendments offered tonight, these are expected to be defeated. (However, as this was being written, an amendment regarding higher education was adopted.)
In addition to previously mentioned amendments, Senate Democrats also proposed buying back the $19 million that would be reduced in national board bonuses.
One of the most spirited moments was the discussion about restoring the Readiness to Learn funding. Senator Sharon Nelson, D-Vashon Island, asked why $3 million could be prioritized for fair prizes but programs that help kids and families get cut. The debate went back and forth, with passions on display.
Senate Republicans were well organized on the amendments and returned to a message that their budget represented their priorities, and that they could no longer afford to fund even good programs. Others said that perhaps programs could be bought back in the negotiated budget.
At 11:30 p.m., the last amendment was defeated, with Democratic Sens. Kastama, Sheldon, and Tom continuing to vote with Senate Republicans. Debate has now started on the Zarelli striking amendment.
In addition to previously mentioned amendments, Senate Democrats also proposed buying back the $19 million that would be reduced in national board bonuses.
One of the most spirited moments was the discussion about restoring the Readiness to Learn funding. Senator Sharon Nelson, D-Vashon Island, asked why $3 million could be prioritized for fair prizes but programs that help kids and families get cut. The debate went back and forth, with passions on display.
Senate Republicans were well organized on the amendments and returned to a message that their budget represented their priorities, and that they could no longer afford to fund even good programs. Others said that perhaps programs could be bought back in the negotiated budget.
At 11:30 p.m., the last amendment was defeated, with Democratic Sens. Kastama, Sheldon, and Tom continuing to vote with Senate Republicans. Debate has now started on the Zarelli striking amendment.
Senate reconvenes, takes up budget amendments
After a short recess, about 8:20 p.m., the Senate returned to the floor and began work on the striking amendment offered by Senator Zarelli, R-Ridgefield. Senate Democrats offered 35 amendments to restore funding. If the votes continue along the same lines, each amendment will go down by a vote of 24-25.
Amendments that would have restored funding to K-12 funding if adopted included:
- $2.8 million to restore Medicaid Funding for school-based medical services
- Keeping Running Start at 1.2 FTE instead of the 1.0 proposed by Senate Republicans
- $1 million for the Washington College Bound scholarships
- $3.2 million for Readiness to Learn
- $2.8 million for Nav 101
- $950,000 for the Reading Corps
- $1 million for the Beginning Educator Support Team program
The Senate Republicans did not propose an apportionment shift.
The speeches are worth listening to on TVW.
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Amendments that would have restored funding to K-12 funding if adopted included:
- $2.8 million to restore Medicaid Funding for school-based medical services
- Keeping Running Start at 1.2 FTE instead of the 1.0 proposed by Senate Republicans
- $1 million for the Washington College Bound scholarships
- $3.2 million for Readiness to Learn
- $2.8 million for Nav 101
- $950,000 for the Reading Corps
- $1 million for the Beginning Educator Support Team program
The Senate Republicans did not propose an apportionment shift.
The speeches are worth listening to on TVW.
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Reading of the Republican budget proposal ends
After more than an hour of reading the Senate Republican supplemental operating budget proposal, Lt. Governor Brad Owen called a halt and the Senate resumed business.
Standing for a point of personal privilege, Senator Tracey Eide, D-Federal Way, expressed her dismay at the way the afternoon's proceedings had unfolded. Senator Ed Murray, D-Seattle, shared Eide's concerns, saying this was no way to write a budget and totally left out the public's voice and Senate deliberations.
The Senate is "milling" right now, as both sides of the aisle decide next steps.
On the other side of the Capitol building, the House adjourned shortly after 5 p.m. They will meet Saturday at 9 a.m. In House Ways and Means, and will be on the floor at 12:30 p.m.
The Senate Ways and Means Committee was scheduled to meet tomorrow at 1:30 p.m., but that meeting may be in jeopardy due to the afternoon's events.
Standing for a point of personal privilege, Senator Tracey Eide, D-Federal Way, expressed her dismay at the way the afternoon's proceedings had unfolded. Senator Ed Murray, D-Seattle, shared Eide's concerns, saying this was no way to write a budget and totally left out the public's voice and Senate deliberations.
The Senate is "milling" right now, as both sides of the aisle decide next steps.
On the other side of the Capitol building, the House adjourned shortly after 5 p.m. They will meet Saturday at 9 a.m. In House Ways and Means, and will be on the floor at 12:30 p.m.
The Senate Ways and Means Committee was scheduled to meet tomorrow at 1:30 p.m., but that meeting may be in jeopardy due to the afternoon's events.
What does the Senate Republican budget mean for K-12 funding
The striking amendment was just posted to the web site .... Here is the difference with the Senate Democrats' budget proposal - at least $26 million in cuts to K-12, including:
- $19 million from National Board bonuses ... Rolls the original bonus back from $5,090 to $2,500 but retains the challenging schools bonus;
- cuts the second year of most non-basic education programs, similar to the House Republican budget proposal;
- includes $5.7 million for the teacher/principal evaluation system;
- appears to have similar language to the Senate D budget proposal regarding the Transitional Bilingual Instruction Program;
- Makes a similar add of the ALE students in small schools counts and the study on the transportation formula;
- does not appear to include the blue ribbon commission on education as proposed by the Senate Democrats and House budget
That's a quick review of differences ... More as I get some time to review the budget proposal.
- $19 million from National Board bonuses ... Rolls the original bonus back from $5,090 to $2,500 but retains the challenging schools bonus;
- cuts the second year of most non-basic education programs, similar to the House Republican budget proposal;
- includes $5.7 million for the teacher/principal evaluation system;
- appears to have similar language to the Senate D budget proposal regarding the Transitional Bilingual Instruction Program;
- Makes a similar add of the ALE students in small schools counts and the study on the transportation formula;
- does not appear to include the blue ribbon commission on education as proposed by the Senate Democrats and House budget
That's a quick review of differences ... More as I get some time to review the budget proposal.
Last bill ... SB 6616
The bill would take solid waste tax revenues from the Public Works Trust Fund and redirect them to the general fund permanently.
Senator Derek Kilmer of Gig Harbor reminded the body of the Washington Policy Center call for more transparency and to put budgets on the bar for review of 72 hours.
All four were relieved from the Senate Ways and Means Committee and placed on the floor calendar for a vote.
They have reverted to the 6th order of business, which is floor action.
Senator Derek Kilmer of Gig Harbor reminded the body of the Washington Policy Center call for more transparency and to put budgets on the bar for review of 72 hours.
All four were relieved from the Senate Ways and Means Committee and placed on the floor calendar for a vote.
They have reverted to the 6th order of business, which is floor action.
Next up ... SB 6378 and SB 6615
The bill would skip a pension payment ...
Senator Murray said that the Senate Rs have broken faith by not bringing forward their budget ideas sooner. "this is not how you build a budget," said Murray.
Senator Steve Conway, D-Tacoma, says to move the bill to the floor would damage the pension system in the state.
Motion passed - Senator Tom, Kastama, and Sheldon, Democrats, continue to vote with the Republicans to bring the bills forward.
SB 6615 - a permanent shift for funds to local government to the general fund.
As long as the three Democrats continue to vote with the Republicans, the bills will be boosted to the floor.
Senator Murray said that the Senate Rs have broken faith by not bringing forward their budget ideas sooner. "this is not how you build a budget," said Murray.
Senator Steve Conway, D-Tacoma, says to move the bill to the floor would damage the pension system in the state.
Motion passed - Senator Tom, Kastama, and Sheldon, Democrats, continue to vote with the Republicans to bring the bills forward.
SB 6615 - a permanent shift for funds to local government to the general fund.
As long as the three Democrats continue to vote with the Republicans, the bills will be boosted to the floor.
Senate is in meltdown ....
One of the bills that they are attempting to boost to the floor is SB 5967, the Governor's supplemental budget proposal. It cuts K-12, social services, etc. The Senate Republicans are planning to run their version of the supplemental budget. But now the fight is whether they boost the bill to the floor to let it go to a vote.
They have also asked for three additional bills from Senate Ways and Means. The bills are two revenue bills and a pension bill, we think.
Senator Jim Hargrove has made a motion to send the bill to Senate Government Ops Committee if it comes to the Senate floor.
Any bill that is boosted is not subject to the 5 pm cutoff fast approaching.
They have also asked for three additional bills from Senate Ways and Means. The bills are two revenue bills and a pension bill, we think.
Senator Jim Hargrove has made a motion to send the bill to Senate Government Ops Committee if it comes to the Senate floor.
Any bill that is boosted is not subject to the 5 pm cutoff fast approaching.
Senator Benton moved 9th order ... 3 Ds vote with Rs
Watch TVW to see what happens. The Senate Republicans want to run their version of the budget.
Senate passes revised WaKIDS bill
The Senate passed ESHB 2586, by a vote of 43-5, sending the bill back to the House for agreement on the changes adopted on the Senate floor. This bill is informally called the WaKIDS bill, and refers to a kindergarten readiness inventory conducted during the initial weeks of the start of school.
The changes by the Senate would direct OSPI to convene a stakeholder group to review some of the issues raised during the session on implementation of the readiness tool. Teachers, parents, principals, and others would be part of the working group. The preliminary report is due December 1, 2012, with a final report due the following year.
In addition, while there is still a goal of full implementation by the 2014-15 school year, the bill allows for school districts to continue to apply to OSPI for an annual waiver from the requirement until all-day kindergarten is funded by the state.
The bill was a compromise on some of the amendments that had been added in the Senate policy and fiscal committees. It is expected to receive concurrence by the House.
Of the bills remaining on the Senate and House calendar, the only major education bill that remains is SSB 6442, the bill that would consolidate the K-12 health benefits system into a state program. With the clock ticking down to today's 5 p.m. deadline, it looks like many bills will be left on the calendar or in Rules.
Once the deadline ends, typically only bills that are necessary to implement the budget will be considered, along with budget bills.
The changes by the Senate would direct OSPI to convene a stakeholder group to review some of the issues raised during the session on implementation of the readiness tool. Teachers, parents, principals, and others would be part of the working group. The preliminary report is due December 1, 2012, with a final report due the following year.
In addition, while there is still a goal of full implementation by the 2014-15 school year, the bill allows for school districts to continue to apply to OSPI for an annual waiver from the requirement until all-day kindergarten is funded by the state.
The bill was a compromise on some of the amendments that had been added in the Senate policy and fiscal committees. It is expected to receive concurrence by the House.
Of the bills remaining on the Senate and House calendar, the only major education bill that remains is SSB 6442, the bill that would consolidate the K-12 health benefits system into a state program. With the clock ticking down to today's 5 p.m. deadline, it looks like many bills will be left on the calendar or in Rules.
Once the deadline ends, typically only bills that are necessary to implement the budget will be considered, along with budget bills.
Monday, February 27, 2012
Senate budget committee passes ed bills out of committee by deadline
Four education bills received a do pass recommendation, subject to signature, from the Senate Ways and Means Committee. The bills include:
- SHB 2492 would require fiscal impact statements be provided during certain State Board of Education rule making proposals to identify fiscal impacts on school districts.
- E2SHB 2337 would create a library of open source curriculum on Common Core Standards, along with convening a stakeholder group to review existing materials and make recommendations.
- ESHB 2586 was amended in committee ... It would appear the underlying bill has been replaced with a stakeholder group that will report back to the Legislature, but the amendment was not available for review. However, it is possible that the working group is for only one piece of the bill.
- SHB 2617 would create a legal framework for the dissolution of school districts faced with insolvency. The committee adopted a technical amendment raised by the county treasurers.
All four bills have been sent to the Senate Rules Committee, provided they receive enough signatures to move forward.
Today was the final day for consideration of policy bills with a fiscal impact.
- SHB 2492 would require fiscal impact statements be provided during certain State Board of Education rule making proposals to identify fiscal impacts on school districts.
- E2SHB 2337 would create a library of open source curriculum on Common Core Standards, along with convening a stakeholder group to review existing materials and make recommendations.
- ESHB 2586 was amended in committee ... It would appear the underlying bill has been replaced with a stakeholder group that will report back to the Legislature, but the amendment was not available for review. However, it is possible that the working group is for only one piece of the bill.
- SHB 2617 would create a legal framework for the dissolution of school districts faced with insolvency. The committee adopted a technical amendment raised by the county treasurers.
All four bills have been sent to the Senate Rules Committee, provided they receive enough signatures to move forward.
Today was the final day for consideration of policy bills with a fiscal impact.
Legislative update: budget status
The House Ways and Means committee passed SHB 2127 out of committee Saturday with two changes to K12 funding. The committee restored funding for small high schools and added $3 million for an "urban schools" partnership between school districts and universities. This is in addition to funding also included for the Governor's university/school district partnership.
The supplemental operating budget bill passed along party lines (Democrats voting yes, Republicans voting no).
In addition to offering a number of amendments, House Republicans proposed striking the House Democrats' K-12 funding proposal and replacing it with their own funding priorities. This included opposing the apportionment shift and May/June LEA shift of payments to school districts to July 2013.
Rep. Bruce Dammeier, R-Puyallup, opposed making the delayed $404 million in payments part of the 2013-15 biennial operating budget, and said that with deeper cuts this biennium, the payment shifts were unnecessary.
The House is expected to vote on the budget bill Tuesday.
Meanwhile ... Senate Ways & Means has a long list of bills for possible executive action today, including bills on WaKIDS (HB 2586), fiscal insolvency of school districts (HB 2617), state board of education fiscal impact statements (HB 2492) and open source curriculum (HB 2337).
They are breaking for caucus now and will be back to take on the list of some 35 bills ...they are expected to return around 6:30 p.m.
The supplemental operating budget bill passed along party lines (Democrats voting yes, Republicans voting no).
In addition to offering a number of amendments, House Republicans proposed striking the House Democrats' K-12 funding proposal and replacing it with their own funding priorities. This included opposing the apportionment shift and May/June LEA shift of payments to school districts to July 2013.
Rep. Bruce Dammeier, R-Puyallup, opposed making the delayed $404 million in payments part of the 2013-15 biennial operating budget, and said that with deeper cuts this biennium, the payment shifts were unnecessary.
The House is expected to vote on the budget bill Tuesday.
Meanwhile ... Senate Ways & Means has a long list of bills for possible executive action today, including bills on WaKIDS (HB 2586), fiscal insolvency of school districts (HB 2617), state board of education fiscal impact statements (HB 2492) and open source curriculum (HB 2337).
They are breaking for caucus now and will be back to take on the list of some 35 bills ...they are expected to return around 6:30 p.m.
Thursday, February 16, 2012
Revenue forecast slightly positive, Week 7 schedule available on WSSDA website Friday
The pace is really picking up next week, with the Tuesday deadline for bills to clear House policy committees, and by Thursday for the House appropriations committees. Meanwhile, the Senate has a Friday cutoff for policy committees.
In addition, the logjam over repealing some tax exemptions may be broken, with House Republicans announcing some willingness to consider exemptions that have either outlived their usefulness or aren’t producing the expected results at this time.
Look for a new committee schedule on the WSSDA web site Friday, February 17.
Both chambers have a Monday, February 27 deadline for bills to pass bills out of fiscal committees, with the House Ways & Means Committee working Saturday.
In addition, a House Democratic proposal for the 2011-13 supplemental operating budget is expected to be released this week.
Lawmakers are hoping to meet a March 8 deadline to complete their work in the short 60-day session.
With a slightly better revenue forecast issued today, lawmakers may find it easier to bridge a now-projected $1.1 billion shortfall and still keep some money in the bank.
The outlook remains uncertain for the biennium, which is why Gov. Chris Gregoire wants the Legislature to leave about $600 million in reserve. The Economic and Revenue Forecast Council summed it up with:
“Our current economic forecast is very similar to our November forecast, with the same muddle-through conditions expected for the rest of the biennium, along with a high degree of downside risk.” Click here for more information on the revenue forecast announcement.
In addition, the logjam over repealing some tax exemptions may be broken, with House Republicans announcing some willingness to consider exemptions that have either outlived their usefulness or aren’t producing the expected results at this time.
Look for a new committee schedule on the WSSDA web site Friday, February 17.
Thursday, February 9, 2012
SHB 2492 passes House 97-0
Saying the bill will result in better communication and understanding of fiscal impacts on school districts when the State Board of Education considers rule changes, sponsor Rep. Kathy Haigh, D-35, encouraged lawmakers to vote yes.
Also rising in support was bill co-sponsor Rep. Bruce Dammeier, R-25, who urged a strong "yes" vote.
Without further ado, the bill passed unanimously. It was one of the last bills to pass tonight before the House adjourned until Friday.
The bill now moves to the Senate for consideration.
Also rising in support was bill co-sponsor Rep. Bruce Dammeier, R-25, who urged a strong "yes" vote.
Without further ado, the bill passed unanimously. It was one of the last bills to pass tonight before the House adjourned until Friday.
The bill now moves to the Senate for consideration.
House to take up state board rules bill tonight
The House will vote tonight on a bill that would require the State Board of Education to develop a fiscal impact statement on significant rules that have an effect on school districts. The bill would require a public hearing on the fiscal impact statement, and direct the SBE to share the information with the education committees of the Legislature.
SHB 2492 is co-sponsored by Rep. Kathy Haigh, D-Shelton, and Rep. Bruce Dammeier, R-Puyallup. The bill creates some exceptions to the requirement for a fiscal impact statement, mainly for technical changes or when explicitly defined by the Legislature.
The bill is on a list that was just taken up by the House and is not expected to have opposition. No amendments have been proposed.
Interested parties can watch the discussion on TVW (www.tvw.org).
SHB 2492 is co-sponsored by Rep. Kathy Haigh, D-Shelton, and Rep. Bruce Dammeier, R-Puyallup. The bill creates some exceptions to the requirement for a fiscal impact statement, mainly for technical changes or when explicitly defined by the Legislature.
The bill is on a list that was just taken up by the House and is not expected to have opposition. No amendments have been proposed.
Interested parties can watch the discussion on TVW (www.tvw.org).
Wednesday, February 8, 2012
Fiscal committees spell end of some bills, other remain “alive”
The list of active bills is getting smaller, after budget committees wrapped up marathon sessions Tuesday, February 7, polishing some bills and sending others to the graveyard.
Get more on this story Thursday, Feb. 9 at www.wssda.org Legislative Updates
Keep in mind that several bills that didn’t pass budget committees may get labeled “Necessary to Implement the Budget” or NTIB, and others – like the many revenue and tax preference bills – may get wrapped into the budget conversations as well.
In addition, for many bills that passed out of the House and Senate Ways & Means committees, modifications were made to trim the fiscal note, add accountability, make tweaks to satisfy stakeholder or member concerns, or remove policy elements that would have kept the bill from moving merrily along.
Action now turns to the Rules committees, which serve as the gate-keepers to what the full House or Senate will vote on. Lawmakers also will be focused on floor action; they have until Tuesday, Feb. 14 at 5 p.m. to pass bills from the chamber where they started.
Tuesday, February 7, 2012
Senate budget committee to hear TPEP, reform bills
The Senate Ways & Means Committee has pulled two "title only" bills from last year's vault and scheduled them for a public hearing today at 1:30 p.m.
As advertised, the public hearing is on the "proposed substitute." SB 5895 is the Governor's TPEP bill (SB 6177); SB 5896 is the business-backed reform bill on teacher and principal evaluations (SB 6203). WSSDA was supportive of the Governor's bill and supported elements of the reform bill.
In addition, the budget committee has scheduled SB 6377, which would eliminate funding requirements for I-728 (class size) and I-732 (COLAs), and SB SB 6567, which appears to exempt state funding allocations of K-12 spending from I-601 expenditure limits.
As advertised, the public hearing is on the "proposed substitute." SB 5895 is the Governor's TPEP bill (SB 6177); SB 5896 is the business-backed reform bill on teacher and principal evaluations (SB 6203). WSSDA was supportive of the Governor's bill and supported elements of the reform bill.
In addition, the budget committee has scheduled SB 6377, which would eliminate funding requirements for I-728 (class size) and I-732 (COLAs), and SB SB 6567, which appears to exempt state funding allocations of K-12 spending from I-601 expenditure limits.
Friday, February 3, 2012
Charter school bill still stalling Senate committee action
Action in the Senate Early Learning & K-12 Education Committee on SB 6202, the bill that would authorize 10 charter schools a year, for a total of 50 in the next five years, appears to be the main reason the committee hasn't met to act on bills before today's cutoff for policy bills.
The teacher/principal evaluation bills are also part of the equation.
And with the meltdown in the House Education Committee earlier this week, the Governor lost her lab partnership bills and her version of the teacher/principal evaluation bills. All of which added up to Governor-intervention last night and today to see if some resolution could be found.
We've been waiting to hear whether a noon or 3:30 p.m. meeting would materialize, but so far nothing has been set.
Stay tuned.
The teacher/principal evaluation bills are also part of the equation.
And with the meltdown in the House Education Committee earlier this week, the Governor lost her lab partnership bills and her version of the teacher/principal evaluation bills. All of which added up to Governor-intervention last night and today to see if some resolution could be found.
We've been waiting to hear whether a noon or 3:30 p.m. meeting would materialize, but so far nothing has been set.
Stay tuned.
Thursday, February 2, 2012
House Republicans announce K-12 budget
At a press conference today, House Republicans announced House Bll 2770, which would lay out a K-12 budget spending plan for the remainder of the biennium.
The actual budget proposal is not available yet. House Ways & Means ranking Republican Gary Alexander said their proposal makes about $50 million in cuts to public schools funding from the current biennial budget, compared to the Governor's proposal, which cut $150 million from local effort assistance alone.
According to a press release by House Republicans, the proposal is expected to eliminate non-basic education programs, freeze the teacher salary step schedule, and reduce the bonus amount for National Board Certified Teachers. Local effort assistance is not cut.
The announcement and budget proposal will be in line with House Bill 2533, which would direct the legislature to enact an education budget first before other spending proposals.
HB 2533 was heard before the House Education budget committee earlier this week. It was supported by most education organizations, including WSSDA, WASA, AWSP, WEA, PTA, Stand for Children, and SPI Randy Dorn.
Currently, the legislature passes three separate budgets - operating, transportation, and capital. HB 2533 would require the legislature to adopt an education budget first.
The actual budget proposal is not available yet. House Ways & Means ranking Republican Gary Alexander said their proposal makes about $50 million in cuts to public schools funding from the current biennial budget, compared to the Governor's proposal, which cut $150 million from local effort assistance alone.
According to a press release by House Republicans, the proposal is expected to eliminate non-basic education programs, freeze the teacher salary step schedule, and reduce the bonus amount for National Board Certified Teachers. Local effort assistance is not cut.
The announcement and budget proposal will be in line with House Bill 2533, which would direct the legislature to enact an education budget first before other spending proposals.
HB 2533 was heard before the House Education budget committee earlier this week. It was supported by most education organizations, including WSSDA, WASA, AWSP, WEA, PTA, Stand for Children, and SPI Randy Dorn.
Currently, the legislature passes three separate budgets - operating, transportation, and capital. HB 2533 would require the legislature to adopt an education budget first.
Bill to require fiscal impact statements on SBE rules passes committee
The House Education Appropriations Committee passed HB 2492 from committee today 17-0 with 2 excused.
WSSDA worked with the bill sponsors to address issues raised by staff regarding how the original bill would be implemented, and create an alternative that required the State Board of Education to solicit information from school districts on proposed rule changes.
The substitute bill focuses the fiscal impact statement on significant rules and would not be used on technical changes. It also creates the process to have a presentation and public hearing on the fiscal impact statement prior to SBE adoption, and forward a copy of the impact statement to the Education committees.
The bill moves to the Rules Committee for the next step towards passage in the House.
WSSDA worked with the bill sponsors to address issues raised by staff regarding how the original bill would be implemented, and create an alternative that required the State Board of Education to solicit information from school districts on proposed rule changes.
The substitute bill focuses the fiscal impact statement on significant rules and would not be used on technical changes. It also creates the process to have a presentation and public hearing on the fiscal impact statement prior to SBE adoption, and forward a copy of the impact statement to the Education committees.
The bill moves to the Rules Committee for the next step towards passage in the House.
Wednesday, January 18, 2012
Calendar of Committee Meetings for Week 3 of the Legislative Session
The following information would usually be provided via WSSDA Legislative Updates.
Due to inclement weather in Olympia, access to post the updates is limited.
January 23 – 27, 2012
Legislative Committee Schedule
Schedule subject to change; check www.leg.wa.gov for the most current information
Monday, January 23
8 a.m., Senate Agriculture Water & Rural Economic Development, SHR 3
Public Hearing:
- SB 6183 - Regarding bid requirements for schools purchasing Washington grown foods and other goods.
- SB 6221 - Concerning state capital funding of health and safety improvements at agricultural fairs.
- SB 6208 - Regarding license fees under the warehouse act.
1:30 p.m., Senate Early Learning & K-12 Education, SHR 1
Public Hearing:
2. SB 6246 - Strengthening categorical school programs based on the recommendations of the quality education council.
3. SB 6177 - Regarding certificated employee evaluations.
4. SB 6203 - Implementing revised teacher and principal evaluation systems.
5. SB 6278 - Regarding provisional school employees' contracts.
6. SB 6317 - Establishing a statewide plan for implementing revised teacher and principal evaluation systems to support continuous professional growth based on the development work of pilot school districts.
7. SB 6318 - Facilitating statewide implementation of revised teacher and principal evaluation systems through professional development and training.
3:30 p.m., Senate Ways & Means, SHR 4
Public Hearing:
- Recommendations of the Commission on State Debt:
- SB 6262 - Implementing the recommendations of the commission on state debt.
- SJR 8221 - Amending the Constitution to include the recommendations of the commission on state debt.
- Governor's 2012 Supplemental Capital Budget.
- SB 6002 - Making adjustments to the school construction assistance formula.
- SB 5984 - Concerning local government financial soundness.
6 p.m., House Education, HHR A
Public Hearing:
- HB 2586 - Phasing-in statewide implementation of the Washington kindergarten inventory of developing skills.
- HB 2506 - Strengthening categorical school programs based on the recommendations of the quality education council.
- HB 2470 - Providing for educational opportunities for low-income, at-risk, and diverse students based on the recommendations of the quality education council.
- HB 2447 - Defining a high school credit for graduation purposes based on the recommendations of the quality education council.
- HB 2164 - Encouraging school districts to loop groups of students and teachers in successive grade levels.
- HB 2268 - Establishing financial literacy as a high school graduation requirement.
Executive Session: HB 1753 - Clarifying the authority of a nurse working in a school setting.
Tuesday, January 24
8 a.m., House Capital Budget, HHR D
Public Hearing:
- HB 2494 - Implementing the recommendations of the commission on state debt.
- HJR 4226 - Amending the Constitution to include the recommendations of the commission on state debt.
8 a.m., House Education Appropriations & Oversight, HHR A
Public Hearing:
- HB 2336 - Requiring a model policy for open licensing of courseware developed with state funds.
- HB 2485 - Authorizing school districts to use electronic formats for warrants.
- HB 2492 - Requiring the state board of education to provide fiscal impact statements before making rule changes.
10 a.m., Senate Higher Education & Workforce Development, SHR 3
Public Hearing:
- SB 6232 - Creating the office of the student achievement council.
- SB 6269 - Regarding higher education coordination.
- Relating to program fees at institutions of higher education [S-3822.3].
- Relating to creating efficiencies for institutions of higher education [S-4003.1].
The draft bills are posted on the Committee’s website at: http://www.leg.wa.gov/Senate/Committees/HEWD/Pages/default.aspx and are available from committee staff. Possible executive session on bills heard in committee. Other business.
1:30 p.m., House Education, HHR A
Public Hearing:
- HB 2209 - Addressing issues of accountability and funding for alternative learning experience programs.
- HB 2231 - Reducing costs by reducing state assessment requirements.
- HB 2411 - Regarding high school graduation requirements.
- HB 2543 - Regarding state board of education rules that contain unfunded mandates.
1:30 p.m., Senate Government Operations, Tribal Relations & Elections, SHR 2
Public Hearing:
- SSB 5049 - Implementing recommendations of the sunshine committee.
- SB 6109 - Exempting video and audio recordings of closed executive session meetings from public inspection and copying.
1:30 p.m., Senate Labor, Commerce & Consumer Protection, SHR 4
Public Hearing: SB 6229 - Establishing minimum standards for sick and safe leave from employment.
6 p.m., House Education, HHR A
Public Hearing:
- HB 2165 - Facilitating statewide implementation of revised teacher and principal evaluation systems through professional development and training.
- HB 2334 - Establishing a statewide plan for implementing revised teacher and principal evaluation systems to support continuous professional growth based on the development work of pilot school districts.
- HB 2309 - Regarding provisional school employees' contracts.
- HB 2427 - Implementing revised teacher and principal evaluation systems.
Wednesday, January 25
8 a.m., Senate Early Learning & K-12 Education, SHR 1
Public Hearing:
- SGA 9197 - John Glenn, Member, State School for the Blind Board of Trustees.
- SB 6348 - Creating the laboratory school partnership program.
- SSB 5191 - Providing flexibility in the education system.
- SB 6323 - Reducing certain requirements affecting school districts.
- SB 6099 - Regarding school district levy elections.
- SB 6247 - Changing the duties of the quality education council and the state board of education.
3:30 p.m., Senate Ways & Means, SHR 4
Public Hearing: various revenue bills
Thursday, January 26
8 a.m., House Early Learning & Human Services, HHR D
Public Hearing:
- HB 2569 - Implementing a voluntary quality rating and improvement system for child care centers and early learning programs.
- HB 2608 - Requiring the department of early learning to develop state early learning guidelines.
8 a.m., House Education, HHR A
Public Hearing:
- HB 2215 - Concerning waivers from school year requirements for purposes of economy and efficiency.
- HB 2479 - Expanding waivers from the one hundred eighty-day school year requirement.
- HB 2333 - Reducing state requirements on local school districts.
- HB 2538 - Reducing certain requirements affecting school districts.
- HB 2199 - Changing compulsory school attendance requirements for children six and seven years of age.
- HB 2493 - Making the membership of the state board of education more representative of public education.
1:30 p.m., Senate Early Learning & K-12 Education, SHR 1
Public Hearing:
- SSB 5142 - Regarding alternative learning programs.
- SB 6231 - Regarding open educational resources in K-12 education.
1:30 p.m., Senate Health & Long-Term Care, SHR 4
Public Hearing:
- Consolidating purchasing system for public school employees [S-3668.2].
- SB 6236 - Authorizing the presentation of claims for payment for pathology services to direct patient-provider primary care practices.
Possible Executive Session: Bills previously heard in committee.
The draft bill is posted on the Committee’s website at: http://www.leg.wa.gov/Senate/Committees/HEA/Pages/default.aspx and available from committee staff. Other business.
Friday, January 27
8 a.m., House Labor & Workforce Development, HHR C
Public Hearing:
4. HB 2508 - Establishing minimum standards for sick and safe leave from employment.
1:30 p.m., House Education, HHR A
Possible Executive Session:
- HB 2165 - Facilitating statewide implementation of revised teacher and principal evaluation systems through professional development and training.
- HB 2334 - Establishing a statewide plan for implementing revised teacher and principal evaluation systems to support continuous professional growth based on the development work of pilot school districts.
- HB 2209 - Addressing issues of accountability and funding for alternative learning experience programs.
- HB 2586 - Phasing-in statewide implementation of the Washington kindergarten inventory of developing skills.
- HB 2506 - Strengthening categorical school programs based on the recommendations of the quality education council.
- HB 2470 - Providing for educational opportunities for low-income, at-risk, and diverse students based on the recommendations of the quality education council.
- HB 2447 - Defining a high school credit for graduation purposes based on the recommendations of the quality education council.
Location of committee meetings are denoted as HHR or SHR.
HHR is the John L. O’Brien Building, House Hearing Room
SHR is the J.A. Cherberg Building, Senate Hearing Room
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