HB 1875 changes the definition of work activity (per the WorkFirst program) to include 24 months of vocational educational training (currently it is 12 months).
SHB 1875 as amended by the House of Appropriations Committee: Extends the period of time that a WorkFirst participant may receive vocational training from 12 months to 24 months.
House Floor Amendment: As amended by the House, a requirement that the Joint Legislative Audit and Review Committee conduct a sunset review by August 1, 2019 was added. The 24-month limit for vocational educational training is replaced with a 12- month limit effective August 1, 2019. The 24-month limit provision would be repealed effective August 1, 2020.
ESHB 1875 as amended by the Senate Human Services, Mental Health & Housing Committee: Until August 1, 2019, a WorkFirst participant may engage in up to 24 months of vocational training, subject to appropriation. Any vocational training beyond 12 months is limited to training in high-demand/high-wage jobs. On August 1, 2019, the Joint Legislative Audit and Review Committee must conduct a sunset review.
As amended by the Senate Ways and Means committee, the bill adds the requirement that the Joint Legislative Audit and Review Committee conduct a sunset review by August 1, 2019. Replaces the 24-month limit for vocational educational training with a 12- month limit effective August 1, 2019. Repeals the 24-month limit provision effective August 1, 2020.
The following amendments were passed by the Senate:
- Limits the 24-month extension of vocational training for WorkFirst participants to only apply for high-demand/high-wage jobs, which is defined in the bill. Additionally, the authorization to exceed the 12-month limit is contingent upon the individual making progress towards successful completion of the program; and can only apply during state fiscal years in which the DSHS projects that the state will be in compliance with federal TANF work participation requirements.
- Adds the requirement that the Joint Legislative Audit and Review Committee conduct a sunset review by August 1, 2021 on the time limit extension from 12 months to 24 months for purposes of vocational education training for WorkFirst participants and repeals section 1 of the bill effective August 1, 2022.
