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OLYMPIA, Wash. (AP) — The Washington House of Representatives on Thursday passed a bill that would add some efforts to focus on cultural competence in the state's school discipline rules.
The measure, House Bill 1541, would put limits on how long suspensions can last, encourage re-engagement of students and require more cultural competency training for all school staff.
The sponsor of the bill, Rep. Sharon Tomiko Santos, says the aim of the bill is to keep every kid in school and help them prepare for college and career.
Rep. Chad Magendanz opposes the measure because the state adopted new discipline rules in 2013 and hasn't given schools enough time to implement thoe rules.
The discipline bill now moves on to the state Senate.
In other action, the House approved a bill that would make it easier for children of military personnel who are killed, go missing, or become disabled, to attend college in Washington.
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