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.
Updates on the Legislature and state government from the Washington State School Directors' Association.
