Three bills from Rep. Stephanie McClintock receive hearings, including one that would limit mobile device use in classrooms
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Three bills from Rep. Stephanie McClintock receive hearings, including one that would limit mobile device use in classrooms
Rep. Stephanie McClintock testified on three bill this week in three different committees. On Tuesday, she appeared before the Labor and Workplace Standards Committee to introduce House Bill 2035, and later in the Education Committee to testify regarding House Bill 2018.
HB 2018 would improve students’ educational success by restricting mobile device use in public schools. Students’ use of mobile devices during class time has had numerous negative effects on their learning and outcomes.
“Devices are becoming a constant distraction and they disrupt the learning environment for everyone,” said McClintock, R-Vancouver. “Smartphones can also increase harm to students’ mental health either by recording students without consent or through increased cyberbullying.”
The bill would require the Washington State School Directors’ Association to develop a model policy and procedures for restricting student mobile device use during class time.
“This legislation would create a safer and more engaging learning environment for everyone involved,” added McClintock.
HB 2035 would allow a 16- or 17-year-old minor to work the same number and frequency of hours during the school year as would be permitted during summer, school vacations, or holidays, if they meet certain requirements.
The student would have to be enrolled in an approved career and technical education program and the work would have to be performed for an employer approved by the program.
“Many teens work while they attend school but are only allowed to work a certain number of hours,” said McClintock. “Several of these students are ready and prepared to work more hours, which not only would help them financially, but would also offer additional on-the-job training and education.”
Lastly, on Wednesday, McClintock testified in the House Civil Rights and Judiciary Committee on behalf of House Bill 2016.
This bill would make it possible for 16- and 17-year-olds to sign a contract for housing and utilities, namely adolescents without stable housing due to familial conflicts, financial strain, or other unforeseen circumstances.
“When kids in these difficult life situations can’t find a place to live, they often end up in unsafe living situations or even worse on the streets,” said McClintock. “If we can help these hard-working kids with jobs and the financial means to care for themselves get into stable housing and keep them off the streets out of harm’s way, then we need to do that. Not every kid is going to qualify but the ones who do, should be given this opportunity.”
Under HB 2016, a minor who is at least 16 years old and living apart from a parent, guardian, or legal custodian may contract for a residential dwelling unit and utility services to the unit.
According to the legislation, a contract or lease executed by a minor would be binding and could not be voided or disaffirmed by the minor due to his or her age or status as a minor. The consent of a parent, guardian, or legal custodian would not be necessary for a minor to sign a contract for a residential dwelling unit.
Additionally, a parent, guardian, or legal custodian would not be liable for a residential dwelling unit contract signed by a minor, unless the parent, guardian, or legal custodian is a party to the contract or enters a contract as a guarantor for the minor’s debt.
“There are kids sleeping in cars or couch surfing. That is not a recipe for success. The goal of this bill is to ensure they complete high school and graduate,” said McClintock. “This legislation would help prevent unnecessary youth homelessness and give kids a better chance to be successful.”
All three bills now wait to be voted on in their respective committees.
