SENATE BILL REPORT
SB 6139
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 January 21, 2020
Title: An act relating to the joint center for aerospace technology innovation.
Brief Description: Extending the joint center for aerospace technology innovation program.
Sponsors: Senators Mullet, Wagoner, Takko, Wilson, L., Wilson, C., Randall, Conway, Stanford and Carlyle.
Brief History:
Committee Activity: Financial Institutions, Economic Development & Trade: 1/21/20.
Brief Summary of Bill |
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SENATE COMMITTEE ON FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS, ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT & TRADE |
Staff: Kellee Gunn (786-7429)
Background: The Joint Center for Aerospace Technology Innovation (JCATI) was created in 2012 to pursue joint industry-university aerospace research. Ultimately, the research could then be used in aerospace firms, enhance the education of engineering students, and assist the aerospace industry in identifying research needs and opportunities. JCATI would operate as a multi-institutional center under the joint authority of the University of Washington (UW) and Washington State University. JCATI has a board of directors appointed by the Governor, representing a cross section of the aerospace industry and higher education. The Legislature provides $3 million per biennium to JCATI.
The JCATI sunsets July 1, 2020, unless there is legislative action. The Joint Legislative Audit Review Committee (JLARC) performed a sunset review of JCATI and published their recommendation in December 2019. JLARC recommended the Legislature continue the program as it meets the legislative intent to pursue joint university-industry aerospace research in Washington.
Summary of Bill: The sunset date for JCATI is changed from July 1, 2020, to July 1, 2030.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Requested on January 17, 2019.
Creates Committee/Commission/Task Force that includes Legislative members: No.
Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.
Staff Summary of Public Testimony: PRO: JCATI supports economic development in the aerospace industry. This program leverages private dollars to solve aerospace issues through partnerships with institutions of higher education. This benefits students and aerospace businesses across the state. Since it began, 109 grants have been awarded. JCATI has provided a return on investment. JLARC's audit concluded that this program met its legislative intent. We are supportive of JCATI. One project, with the University of Washington, created a coalition of four different aerospace partners to advance a idea for a new composite. The grant allowed the UW to get a professor to work on it, and a white paper written. The white paper's research opened the door for more funded research related to the project. I am a student participating in JCATI. I am currently working on a thruster with an aerospace business partner. It has provided me with the opportunity to gain experience and industry connections. JCATI holds a symposium in April to highlight student work. Without JCATI, I would not have had the same opportunities.
Persons Testifying: PRO: Senator Mark Mullet, Prime Sponsor; Richard Wang, University of Washington Student; Beth Hacker, Joint Center for Aerospace Technology Innovation; Ben Hempstead, Electroimpact.
Persons Signed In To Testify But Not Testifying: No one.