issue area reports | education, workforce and health care
Rep. Osman Salahuddin, D-Redmond, is the House assistant majority whip.
education and workforce development
HB 1414 career opportunities for students
Passed / AWB Supported sponsor: Rep. April Connors, R-Kennewick
This bill expands the state’ s career and technical education task force and directs it to identify restrictions that prevent minor students from training or working in their chosen fields. The bill passed the House 97-0 and the Senate 48-1.
HB 1722 secondary career education
Passed / AWB Supported sponsor: Rep. April Connors, R-Kennewick
This bill requires state agencies to revise rules that prevent high school students from fully participating in career and technical education programs. The bill passed the House 96-0 and the Senate 45-4.
HB 1079 remote testing
Passed / AWB Supported sponsor: Rep. Lilian Ortiz-Self, D-Mukilteo
This bill allows school districts to provide students enrolled in online school programs the option to take statewide standardized tests remotely beginning with the 2027- 2028 school year. The bill passed both chambers unanimously.
HB 1777 registered apprenticeships
Failed / AWB Supported sponsor: Rep. Suzanne Schmidt, R-Spokane Valley
This bill would have expedited consideration of apprenticeship programs already approved by the federal government, significantly expanding access to apprenticeships for all employers in Washington. AWB testified in support of the bill, which had a hearing in the House Postsecondary Education & Workforce Committee but unfortunately failed to advance.
SB 5400 local journalism corps
Failed / AWB Opposed
Bill considered as part of AWB’ s voting record
Favorable outcome for Washington businesses
Missed Opportunities
special edition 2025 13