HOUSE BILL REPORT
HB 2701
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 Passed House:
February 16, 2010
Title: An act relating to the time of commencement of regular legislative sessions.
Brief Description: Clarifying the time of commencement of regular legislative sessions.
Sponsors: Representative Taylor.
Brief History:
Committee Activity:
State Government & Tribal Affairs: 1/22/10, 2/2/10 [DP].
Floor Activity:
Passed House: 2/16/10, 97-1.
Brief Summary of Bill |
|
HOUSE COMMITTEE ON STATE GOVERNMENT & TRIBAL AFFAIRS |
Majority Report: Do pass. Signed by 7 members: Representatives Hunt, Chair; Appleton, Vice Chair; Armstrong, Ranking Minority Member; Alexander, Hurst, Miloscia and Taylor.
Minority Report: Without recommendation. Signed by 1 member: Representative Flannigan.
Staff: Tracey O'Brien (786-7196).
Background:
Article II, Section 12 of the Washington Constitution specifies that a regular session of the Legislature must be convened each year. The specific day and time must be designated by the Legislature in statute. During an odd-numbered year, the regular session shall not be more than 105 consecutive days. During an even-numbered year, the regular session shall not be more than 60 consecutive days.
The Legislature has designated the second Monday of January to be the first day of the annual regular session.
Summary of Bill:
The current statute is updated to codify a noon start time for the first day of the annual regular session.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Not requested.
Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of the session in which the bill is passed.
Staff Summary of Public Testimony:
(In support) A noon start time is consistent with current practice. This bill not only clarifies the start time of a legislative session, but also the end time.
(Opposed) None.
Persons Testifying: Representative Taylor, prime sponsor.
Persons Signed In To Testify But Not Testifying: None.