This week the Washington state senate approved the following bills:
Senate Bill 6696 requires the Superintendent of Public Instruction to enact an accountability system for persistently low-achieving school districts. The act also establishes a system to evaluate teachers and principals, including student achievement, teaching practices and fostering a safe learning environment, and encourages innovation in science and mathematics. The bill passed 41 to 5, with local Senators Joseph Zarelli (R-Ridgefield) and Dan Swecker (R-Rochester) voting against.
Senate Bill 6345 makes it a primary offense to use a hand held cell phone while driving, which was considered a secondary offense. Users can be ticketed without committing any other infraction. This bill also prohibits those with instructional permits or intermediate licenses from using even hands-free cell phones while driving. Exemptions exist for emergency situations and public servants. The bill, which passed by 33-15, is now before the House Committee on Transportation. Of six local Senators, only Don Benton (R-Vancouver) voted yes.
House Bill 1956 allows churches broad authority to provide shelter or housing for homeless persons on property owned or controlled by the church. Counties, cities and towns are prohibited from enacting ordinances interfering with the churches actions in this regard, regardless of proximity to schools or daycare facilities. The local representatives voted along party lines, Democrats for and Republicans against. The bill passed 57-39 is now before the Senate Human Services & Corrections Committee.
Senate Bill 6130 would temporarily repeal provisions of voter approved initiative 960 until after July 1, 2011. Public notice and cost projections for bills which raise taxes, two-thirds majority required to raise taxes by legislature and tax advisory cotes for any tax increase not referred to voters will all be suspended. This act cannot be challenged through referendum, as per an emergency clause. The bill passed 26-22, with local Republicans voting no and Democrats voting yes. It is scheduled for a public hearing in the House Finance Committee.
