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Chandler says lack of
movement on bills fails to address
employee opportunities, tuition
relief
'It is urgent we act now
to ensure a stable, qualified, legal work force,' he says
Rep. Bruce
Chandler, R-Granger, expressed disappointment today that
his package of bills to improve employee safety and opportunities did
not move forward. Friday was the last day for House bills to be voted
out of House policy committees.
"Though I explained to the committees the importance of providing better
footing for employees and students to have opportunities beyond their
current circumstances, the majority apparently did not understand,"
Chandler said. "These bills would provide economic stability for
employers and employees, by assuring a stable, legal workforce; creating
more opportunities for vocational advancement; and giving students the
chance to earn their way to college at a time when tuition continues to
rise."
House Bill 2032 would have created a community
agricultural worker safety grant program to increase training and
education on the job. The bill never received a hearing.
House Bill 1896 would have given employers better access to a
stable, legal workforce. It was heard Feb. 11 in the House Commerce and
Labor Committee.
Chandler noted
the need for legal, qualified employees to support Washington's
agricultural industries which continue to expand.
"It is urgent we act now to ensure a stable, qualified, legal work
force," Chandler said.
House Bill 1428 would have established the "field of dreams" program. The
program would provide college tuition through Guaranteed Education
Tuition credits for high school students working in the agriculture
industry. The proposal was heard in the House Higher Education Committee
on Feb. 6.
"When I talk with constituents, they share the need to have more
opportunities," Chandler said. "They don't want a government handout,
they want doors opened so they can walk through them. During these
difficult economic times, the best thing the Legislature can do is look
at how we can restore economic vitality to our state."
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For more information, contact:
Sarah Lamb, Public Information
Officer - (360) 786-7720
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