SENATE BILL REPORT

EHB 2242

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 of March 17, 2009

Title: An act relating to creating a department of commerce.

Brief Description: Creating a department of commerce.

Sponsors: Representatives Kenney, Probst, Maxwell, Hunt, Liias, Ormsby, Kelley, Sullivan, Hasegawa, Quall, White and Chase; by request of Governor Gregoire.

Brief History: Passed House: 3/12/09, 96-1.

Committee Activity: Economic Development, Trade & Innovation: 3/18/09.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT, TRADE & INNOVATION

Staff: Jack Brummel (786-7428)

Background: The Department of Community, Trade and Economic Development (CTED) is an executive branch agency that was created in 1994 through the consolidation of the Department of Community Development and the Department of Trade and Economic Development. CTED is responsible for promoting community and economic development statewide by (1) assisting communities to increase their economic vitality and the quality of their citizen's lives; and (2) assisting the state's businesses to maintain and increase their economic competitiveness while maintaining a healthy environment.

Summary of Bill: A Department of Commerce (department) is created. By November 1, 2009, its director must, in collaboration with the Office of the Governor, the Office of Financial Management, and leaders of relevant legislative committees, develop recommendations on (1) the department's mission, goals, organizational structure, responsibilities, program alignment, service delivery mechanisms and related issues; and (2) options for relocating critical existing programs that serve communities and individuals, including the possible need for a new separate agency. The director, Governor's Office, OFM, and legislative leaders must identify and seek input from a broad range of stakeholders.

A number of statutory references to the "Department of Community, Trade, and Economic Development" are changed to the "Department of Commerce."

The Code Reviser is directed to prepare legislation for the 2010 session that changes all statutory references from the "Department of Community, Trade, and Economic Development" to the "Department of Commerce."

Various technical changes are made.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Requested on March 17, 2009.

Committee/Commission/Task Force Created: No.

Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.