HOUSE BILL REPORT
HB 1415
This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent. |
As Reported by House Committee On:
Commerce & Labor
Title: An act relating to sales of wine at the legislative gift center.
Brief Description: Providing for the sales of wine at the legislative gift center.
Sponsors: Representatives Hasegawa, Haler, Hunt, Armstrong, Eddy, Newhouse, Conway, Wood, Williams, Johnson, Chase, Upthegrove, Condotta, Moeller and Ormsby.
Brief History:
Committee Activity:
Commerce & Labor: 2/6/09, 2/18/09 [DPS].
Brief Summary of Substitute Bill |
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HOUSE COMMITTEE ON COMMERCE & LABOR |
Majority Report: The substitute bill be substituted therefor and the substitute bill do pass. Signed by 5 members: Representatives Conway, Chair; Wood, Vice Chair; Condotta, Ranking Minority Member; Green and Moeller.
Minority Report: Do not pass. Signed by 2 members: Representatives Chandler and Crouse.
Staff: Joan Elgee (786-7106)
Background:
The Legislative Gift Center (gift center) was created in 2007 and is authorized to sell Washington products, souvenirs, and items bearing the state seal. The Chief Clerk of the House of Representatives and the Secretary of the Senate are charged with governance of the gift center. Profits from gift center sales are deposited into the Legislative Oral History Account; the Washington State Legacy Project, State Library, and Archives Account; and the Capitol Furnishings Preservation Committee Account.
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Summary of Substitute Bill:
A legislative finding is made that the production of wine grapes is an important segment of Washington agriculture as evidenced by investments by the state, including programs at Washington State University and the community and technical colleges. The Legislature further finds that the promotion and sale of Washington wine at the gift center is harmonious with the purpose of the gift center.
The gift center may sell wine produced in Washington by a licensed winery for off-premises consumption. Wine may only be sold to individuals 21 years of age or older for personal use, and must be purchased from a licensed wine distributor or manufacturer. The gift center must collect and remit applicable taxes to the Department of Revenue. To select wines for sale, the gift center is directed to consult with the Washington Wine Commission, which must consider award-winning wines in assisting the gift center.
Provisions in the liquor laws do not apply to or prevent the gift center from selling wine produced in Washington.
Substitute Bill Compared to Original Bill:
The substitute bill provides for the Washington Wine Commission to assist the gift center in selecting wines to be sold. In addition, the substitute bill recognizes the wine technology programs at community and technical colleges in the intent section.
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Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Not requested.
Effective Date of Substitute Bill: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of the session in which the bill is passed.
Staff Summary of Public Testimony:
(In support) The state has made significant investments to develop the wine industry and the gift center is a perfect place to display our efforts. Washington is the second largest premium wine producer in the United States.
(Neutral) The Liquor Control Board sells wine and could assist with choosing of wines. The bill provides a simple exception to allow the sales.
(In support with amendment) Craft breweries should be included. Programs at community and technical colleges should be recognized.
(Opposed) None.
Persons Testifying: (In support) Representative Hasegawa, prime sponsor.
(Neutral) Rick Garza, Washington State Liquor Control Board.
(In support with amendment) T.K. Bentler, Washington Brewers Guild; and Marie Bruin, Washington State Board for Community and Technical Colleges.
Persons Signed In To Testify But Not Testifying: None.