OLYMPIA, Wash. – A new bill introduced in the Washington State Legislature seeks to eliminate age-related restrictions for 16 and 17-year-old students in career and technical education programs.
According to the bill by Kennewick Representative April Connors (prime sponsor), Kennewick Representative Stephanie Barnard and others, school districts have invested heavily in skill center programs to help high school students begin working in their chosen fields.
However, some state agencies have imposed age restrictions that prevent students from starting programs, testing for licenses, or working in professions even after obtaining necessary certifications, said language in House Bill 1722.
If passed, the bill will authorize 16-year-olds to begin emergency medical services training through state-approved programs, provided they continue training until they graduate high school or turn 18.
HB 1722 passed out of the House Committee on Labor and Workplace Standards on Wednesday, February 19 with a unanimous vote and awaits further discussion and consideration in the State House of Representatives.
