SB 6049-S - DIGEST

(AS OF SENATE 2ND READING 4/17/03)

Affirms that preventive and ongoing facility maintenance, properly supported, can prevent and mitigate preservation backlogs.

Declares an intent to set in motion a series of structural changes that will support facility stewardship and ensure that, moving forward in time, the state of Washington and its institutions of higher education do not again face a 1.3 billion dollar deficit of capital improvements to preserve existing buildings for their current use.

Implements the summary recommendation that asks the legislature to designate an agency to sustain and expand the comparable framework and assemble information as needed to support facilities-related budget and policy development for biennial sessions starting in 2005.

Directs the joint legislative audit and review committee to periodically update the comparative framework. The scope of work, focus, funding, and expectations for data and support from state agencies shall be as defined by the legislature through the omnibus appropriations act.

Creates the higher education facility preservation account in the state treasury.

Declares that preservation projects and activities must clearly extend the remaining useful life of the facility, and shall only take place in state and mixed facilities that will be operated for not less than thirteen years from the date of investment.