SENATE BILL REPORT
SHB 1254
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 9, 2011
Title: An act relating to the institute of forest resources.
Brief Description: Regarding the institute of forest resources.
Sponsors: House Committee on Agriculture & Natural Resources (originally sponsored by Representatives Lytton, Blake, Takko, Van De Wege, Ladenburg and Rolfes).
Brief History: Passed House: 2/28/11, 97-0.
Committee Activity: Natural Resources & Marine Waters: 3/09/11.
SENATE COMMITTEE ON NATURAL RESOURCES & MARINE WATERS |
Staff: Sherry McNamara (786-7402)
Background: In 1947 the Legislature created The Institute of Forest Products under the Department of Conservation and Development. The Legislature transferred the administration of the institute to the Board of Regents of the University of Washington in 1959. In 1979 it was renamed the Institute of Forest Resources (Institute) and was responsible for pursuing research and education related to forest resources and its multiple uses, including its conservation, management, and utilization.
Summary of Bill: The scope of the Institute is broadened to provide a framework for prioritizing research on critical forest issues in both urban and rural areas. The statutory language is updated to reflect the title change of the administrator of the Institute as the Director of the School of Forest Resources (Director).
The Director is required to coordinate and integrate the cooperatives and research centers. The mission of the Institute is expanded to consider traditional forestry issues along with emerging issues such as environmental services, sustainable management, and forest restoration.
The Director may appoint an 11-member policy advisory board. Discretion is provided to the Director to compensate the policy advisory board members for attendance and travel to board meetings.
The Institute is provided additional mechanisms for raising funds such as the receipt of conveyances and bequests. The Institute may also solicit contracts for work, in-kind and financial contributions, and support from public and private grantees.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Available.
Committee/Commission/Task Force Created: No.
Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.
Staff Summary of Public Testimony: PRO: This bill will reaffirm the Legislature's support of forestry and the roles that forestry and the research conducted by the University of Washington play in our state.
Persons Testifying: PRO: Representative Lytton, prime sponsor.