Jan 16, 2012
Bill in Olympia aims to use students for farm labor

State Legislators hope to prevent a repeat of last year’s farm labor shortage by creating more opportunities for students to take harvesting jobs.

Bipartisan legislation announced Friday would authorize the state Board of Education to allow school districts to adjust the 180-day school year in ways that free students to work in agriculture.

Rep. Norm Johnson,R-Yakima, one of the prime sponsors of House Bill 2408, said the bill is more a reminder to school districts that they already have the authority to establish a flexible calendar for students to work in agriculture.

However, it would potentially free millions for transportation of farm workers as well as allow vocational credit for the work. Mid Columbia Tri City Herald

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