Washington State

House of Representatives

Office of Program Research

BILL

ANALYSIS

Ways & Means Committee

HB 2291

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.

Brief Description: Exempting the agricultural commodity commissions from certain administrative cost reductions.

Sponsors: Representatives Blake and Chandler.

Brief Summary of Bill

  • Exempts agriculture commodity commissions from the personal service contract, equipment purchase, and out-of-state travel/training limitations in ESSB 5460.

Hearing Date: 3/2/09

Staff: Charlie Gavigan (786-7340)

Background:

Chapter 5, Laws of 2009 (Engrossed Substitute Senate Bill 5460 - regarding administrative costs of state government) established a twelve-month salary freeze for state employees, with several exceptions, and a hiring freeze through June 30, 2009. Subject to certain exceptions, it also prohibited state agencies from entering into personal service contracts, purchasing equipment valued over $5,000, and paying for out-of-state travel and training through June 30, 2009. An exception process was established for the hiring freeze and limitations on entering into personal service contracts, the purchase of equipment, and out-of-state travel and training.

There are twenty-five agricultural commodity commissions in Washington.

Summary of Bill:

The personal service contract, equipment purchase, and out-of-state travel/training limitations in Chapter 5, Laws of 2009 (Engrossed Substitute Senate Bill 5460 - regarding administrative costs of state government) do not apply to the agricultural commodity commissions.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Requested on March 1, 2009.

Effective Date: The bill contains an emergency clause and takes effect immediately.