Bill > HB1722

This bill aims to remove barriers that prevent 16 and 17 year old students from fully participating in career and technical education programs by directing state agencies to revise restrictive policies. Specifically, the bill requires the Department of Health to develop a process for authorizing 16-year-olds to begin emergency medical services training through state-approved vocational programs, mandates the Director of Fire Protection to assess and potentially modify policies affecting students in fire services training programs, and prohibits the department of labor from preventing minors from participating in occupations where they have a valid professional health license, even if those occupations involve potential exposure to bodily fluids or infectious agents. The legislature recognizes that current state agency rules often create unnecessary obstacles for young students seeking to advance in technical and professional training programs, and these rules are not required by federal law and are inconsistent with practices in other states. The overall intent is to expand professional and educational opportunities for high school students by removing age-based restrictions that limit their ability to gain practical experience and certifications in various career fields.

Business and Industry, Education, Labor and Employment

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=1722&Year=2025&Initiative=false