SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 5322

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 February 15, 2011

Title: An act relating to restructuring state government.

Brief Description: Creating a commission to restructure state government.

Sponsors: Senators Kastama, Chase and Hatfield.

Brief History:

Committee Activity: Economic Development, Trade & Innovation: 2/16/11.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT, TRADE & INNOVATION

Staff: Jack Brummel (786-7428)

Background: In Article III, section 1 of the Washington State Constitution, the Executive Department is created. The Constitution provides that the Executive Department must consist of a governor, lieutenant governor, secretary of state, treasurer, auditor, attorney general, superintendant of public education, and a commissioner of Public Lands.

All other aspects of state government have been created through statute.

Summary of Bill: The Agency Reallocation and Realignment of Washington Commission (Commission) on restructuring state government is established.

The following individuals are appointed to the Commission:

The President of the Senate and the Speaker of the House of Representatives must jointly appoint a member to the Commission to replace any member that resigns from or declines initial appointment.

The Commission must:

The Commission may make proposals to:

The Commission must report its findings and recommendations in the form of proposed legislation to the 2012 Legislature. The Commission may not issue minority or majority reports.

Any legislation proposed by the Commission must be introduced as a bill in each house of the Legislature and immediately placed on third reading. Each bill must be either approved on final passage or rejected without change or amendment before the full membership of the body.

Documents, materials, and information obtained or produced by the Agency Reallocation and Realignment of Washington Commission are not subject to disclosure under the Public Records Act.

Appropriation: $1 million from the state general fund.

Fiscal Note: Requested on February 15, 2011.

Committee/Commission/Task Force Created: No.

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