FINAL BILL REPORT

SB 6328

C 23 L 02

Synopsis as Enacted

Brief Description:  Changing the definition of cherry harvest temporary labor camp.

Sponsors:  Senators Parlette, Gardner, Hale, Honeyford, Rasmussen and Oke.

Senate Committee on Labor, Commerce & Financial Institutions

House Committee on Commerce & Labor

Background:  In 1999 the Departments of Health and Labor and Industries were authorized by the Legislature to develop joint rules that would establish standards for cherry harvest labor camps.  This directive was based on a recognition that housing needs for this relatively short, labor intensive harvest are different than for crops that have longer harvest periods.  It was also recognized that this harvest takes place entirely during warm weather.  Standards for this type of housing are allowed to vary from the standards necessary for longer occupancies.  However, the standards are required to be as effective as those adopted under the Washington Industrial Safety and Health Act.

Occupancy of cherry harvest camps built according to these standards is limited to 28 days in any one calendar year.

Summary:  The 28 day per year occupancy limit for cherry harvest farm worker housing facilities is removed.  These facilities may be occupied by cherry harvest workers for a period not to exceed one week prior to the commencement of and one week following the conclusion of the cherry harvest within the state.

Votes on Final Passage:

Senate470

House960

Effective:  June 13, 2002