OLYMPIA — State Rep. Drew Hansen, D-Bainbridge Island, will once again be chairman of the House Higher Education Committee when the legislative session begins in January.

Hansen was chosen last week by his colleagues in the majority Democratic caucus to chair this key committee.

The House Higher Education Committee considers issues relating to the state’s public and independent baccalaureate colleges and universities, public community and technical colleges, and private career schools. Issues include governance and coordination of higher education, financial aid, tuition, distance learning, workforce development and the licensing of private colleges and career schools.

“I want to help people get the degrees they need to get better jobs to support their families, and I’m honored to have the opportunity to continue this work,” Hansen said in an announcement of his chairmanship.

In addition to chairing Higher Education, Hansen will be a member of the Appropriations and Judiciary committees.

The 105-day 2017 legislative session begins Jan. 9.