SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 6448

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 Reported by Senate Committee On:

Government Operations, Tribal Relations & Elections, February 2, 2012

Title: An act relating to fiscal impact statements in the voters' pamphlet.

Brief Description: Concerning fiscal impact statements in the voters' pamphlet.

Sponsors: Senators Frockt, Kohl-Welles, McAuliffe and Kline.

Brief History:

Committee Activity: Government Operations, Tribal Relations & Elections: 1/31/12, 2/02/12 [DP, DNP].

SENATE COMMITTEE ON GOVERNMENT OPERATIONS, TRIBAL RELATIONS & ELECTIONS

Majority Report: Do pass.

Signed by Senators Pridemore, Chair; Prentice, Vice Chair; Swecker, Ranking Minority Member; Chase and Nelson.

Minority Report: Do not pass.

Signed by Senator Benton.

Staff: Sam Thompson (786-7413)

Background: The Office of Financial Management prepares fiscal impact statements for initiatives and referendum measures appearing on state ballots. These statements are available online and included in state voters' pamphlets. They must be written in clear and concise language and describe any projected increase or decrease in revenues, costs, indebtedness, or expenditures that the state or local governments experience if voters approve a measure.

Summary of Bill: In addition to current requirements, fiscal impact statements for initiatives and referendum measures appearing on state ballots must describe the effect that any decrease in revenues may have upon an increase in demand for government services that is attributable to a recession. A recession is defined as a decline in the gross state product for at least six months.

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 measure will provide more transparency in the state voters pamphlet, and give voters useful information. There may be some uncertainty about measures that governments may take to cope with challenges during recessions.

OTHER: It may be difficult for OFM to speculate about measures that governments may take to adjust to diminished revenue during a recession, such as cutting social services.

Persons Testifying: PRO: Senator Frockt, prime sponsor.

OTHER: Julie Murray, OFM.