FINAL BILL REPORT
SSB 6341
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. |
C 68 L 10
Synopsis as Enacted
Brief Description: Transferring food assistance programs to the department of agriculture.
Sponsors: Senate Committee on Agriculture & Rural Economic Development (originally sponsored by Senators Hatfield, Haugen, Schoesler, Prentice, Shin and Fairley).
Senate Committee on Agriculture & Rural Economic Development
House Committee on General Government Appropriations
Background: In 1986 the Emergency Food Assistance Program (EFAP) that provides support to food banks was instituted in the Department of Commerce (Commerce). A tribal voucher program was added in 1991. The program utilizes 28 contractors who serve 340 food banks and distribution centers, and 32 tribes provide vouchers or food bank services. Currently, the program received an appropriation of $10 million in state funds for the current biennium.
The Department of General Administration (GA) has administered federal food programs provided from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). This program started as the butter and cheese program in 1981, and was originally referred to as the Temporary Emergency Food Assistance Program. The program has changed over the years and is now known as The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP). This federal program has a requirement for state matching funds. This program serves 420 food providers including food banks, shelters, and meal providers. In 2009 TEFAP provided 14.6 million pounds of USDA provided food.
Additionally, GA administers a second federal program, the Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP). Washington State was approved for CSFP in 2001.
Summary: EFAP in Commerce is transferred to the Washington State Department of Agriculture (WSDA). Additionally, TEFAP and CSFP in GA are transferred to the WSDA.
The director of the WSDA is authorized to exercise powers and duties prescribed by law with respect to the administration of food assistance programs that are assigned to the department. Additionally, WSDA is authorized to adopt rules and to enter into contracts and agreements necessary to implement the programs. Statutory authority for Commerce to coordinate and provide food assistance to distribution centers and needy individuals is deleted.
The transfers include records, appropriations, employees, rules, and existing contracts, and obligations.
Votes on Final Passage:
Senate | 48 | 0 | |
House | 98 | 0 |
Effective: | July 1, 2010 |