SENATE BILL REPORT

HB 1167

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 March 13, 2017

Title: An act relating to fire commissioner compensation.

Brief Description: Concerning fire commissioner compensation.

Sponsors: Representatives Griffey and Springer.

Brief History: Passed House: 2/02/17, 98-0.

Committee Activity: Local Government: 3/09/17.

Brief Summary of Bill

  • Changes the date the Office of Financial Management must begin adjusting the fire commissioner compensation threshold for inflation to January 1, 2019.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON LOCAL GOVERNMENT

Staff: Alex Fairfortune (786-7416)

Background: Fire protection districts (districts) are municipal corporations established to provide fire protection and emergency medical services, primarily in unincorporated areas outside of cities. Districts are governed by a board of three, five, or seven elected fire commissioners (commissioners). Each commissioner may receive up to $104 per day in compensation, or a portion of that amount, for time spent at official board meetings or performing duties on behalf of the district. The total compensation for each commissioner may not exceed $9,984 each year. In addition, each commissioner may receive reimbursement for expenses incurred while engaged in district business.

Every five years, beginning on July 1, 2008, the Office of Financial Management must adjust the commissioner compensation threshold amount for inflation. The adjustment is based on changes in the consumer price index for wage earners and clerical workers, as compiled by the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics. As of 2013, the new compensation threshold amount calculated by the Office of Financial Management was $114 per day, with an annual compensation limit of $10,944.

Summary of Bill: The date at which the Office of Financial Management must begin adjusting the commissioner compensation threshold for inflation is changed from July 1, 2008, to January 1, 2019.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Not requested.

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: The Office of Financial Management increases fire commissioner compensation every five years in July, but the fire districts budget on the calendar year begins in January. This bill will allow fire districts to have that information in January for purposes of budgeting.

Persons Testifying: PRO: Representative Dan Griffey, Prime Sponsor; Ryan Spiller, Washington Fire Commissioners.

Persons Signed In To Testify But Not Testifying: No one.