Kennewick, Wash. – A new bill sponsored by Kennewick Representative April Connors is set to help young people transition from career and technical education (CTE) programs into the workforce.
House Bill 1414, recently approved by the state House, aims to tackle state laws that prevent 16- and 17-year-olds from utilizing their CTE training.
Each year, tens of thousands of Washington students finish CTE programs, acquiring skills and certifications for high-demand jobs. However, Connors said state regulations often hinder young students from entering the workforce
“Not every young person is involved in sports or the arts. For many, work provides a sense of purpose, responsibility, and personal growth. We heard story after story of students who had completed more than 1,000 hours of training, earned certifications, and were eager to work—only to be told they couldn’t because of state regulations,” said Connors in a release. “If signed into law, House Bill 1414 will begin the process of removing these unnecessary obstacles while ensuring appropriate safety protections, allowing these students to put their hard-earned skills to work, build their futures, and contribute to our state’s economy.”
Last summer, Connors convened a workgroup in the Tri-Cities with labor leaders, business owners, and CTE stakeholders. She said they identified that some barriers for CTE students stem from state laws misaligned with federal requirements and unnecessary rulemaking.
House Bill 1414 directs the state’s CTE task force to identify these barriers and suggest changes. If the bill passes, the task force would be expanded to include more representatives, focusing on restrictions that prevent minor students from training or working in their chosen fields.
“Thousands of 16- and 17-year-olds in Washington are motivated, trained, and ready to contribute to our state’s success. We should do everything we can to help them unleash their potential.” Rep. Connors added.
Another Connors bill, House Bill 1722, was also approved earlier this session. It requires state agencies to revise rules that prevent high school students from fully participating in CTE programs, addressing unnecessary age limits.
House Bill 1414 is now in the Senate Committee on Early Learning & K-12 Education, with a public hearing scheduled for Wednesday, March 19.
