SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 5981

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 13, 2012

Title: An act relating to seed dealer license fees.

Brief Description: Changing seed dealer license fees.

Sponsors: Senators Schoesler, Hatfield and Honeyford.

Committee Activity: Agriculture, Water & Rural Economic Development: 1/12/12.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON AGRICULTURE, WATER & RURAL ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

Staff: Bob Lee (786-7404)

Background: The Department of Agriculture (AGR) administers the Washington State Seed Act. The program conducts a range of activities including seed quality testing, seed certification, and issuance of sanitary certificates required for the export of seeds. The program also follows the guidance of regulations of the Federal Seed Act pertaining to seed labeling, methods of sampling, and tolerances.

The Seed Program is funded by fees charged to the industry. The fees charged include a combination of inspection and licensing fees. Inspection fees are set by rule, and license fees are set by statute. The current dealers license fee is $25 for each location. Inspection fees and license fees are placed into a separate account in the agricultural local fund.

Summary of Bill: The seed dealers license fee is increased to $125.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Available.

[OFM requested ten-year cost projection pursuant to I-960.]

Committee/Commission/Task Force Created: None.

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

Staff Summary of Public Testimony: PRO: The bill will support services provided by AGR to the seed industry. This license fee was last increased in 1979. It is important to keep a balance between service fees and license fees.

Persons Testifying: PRO: Mark Streuli, AGR; Brad Boswell, WA and North Idaho Seed Assn.