FINAL BILL REPORT

2SSB 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.

Senate Committee on Financial Institutions, Economic Development & Trade

Senate Committee on Ways & Means

House Committee on Innovation, Technology & Economic Development

House Committee on Appropriations

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 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: The sunset date for JCATI is changed from July 1, 2020, to July 1, 2030.

JCATI must terminate any relationship or potential relationship with an industry partner found to have violated the freedom from discrimination act by the Office of the Attorney General, until the industry partner has satisfied any conditions of the court order or settlement resulting from that violation, or they have taken significant and meaningful steps to correct the violation, as determined by the Washington State Human Rights Commission.

Votes on Final Passage:

Senate	47	0
House	97	0